5 touching children's books about death

Talking to your child about loss can be challenging. Here are five beautiful children's stories about death that will help get the conversation started whether your child has lost a loved one or is simply curious about the great hereafter.

This moving book by Oliver Jeffers tells the story of a young girl who must learn to trust in the world again.

Once there was a girl whose life was filled with wonder at the world around her… Then one day something happened that made the girl take her heart and put it in a safe place. But would she know how to get her heart back?

Where to buy?
Oliver Jeffers, $10, Amazon

This book was inspired by the Sandy Hook Tragedy (illustrator Steven Kellogg is a longtime resident of Newton, Connecticut). The story is meant as a message of hope as it "portrays life’s natural cycle: its beauty, its joy, and its sorrow."

Also read: One year later, parents should never forget Sandy Hook>

Where to buy?
Patricia Maclachlan, $21, Random House

This book is more than 30 years old but it's still an amazing go-to when a family pet dies.

My cat Barney died this Friday. I was very sad. My mother said we could have a funeral for him, and I should think of ten good things about Barney so I could tell them...

Where to buy?
Judith Viorst, $15, Amazon

This bittersweet and honest story is written from a child's perspective and explores the difficult emotions a child may feel after a parent dies. Most importantly, the book teaches children to treasure their special memories.

Where to buy?
Rebecca Cobb, $7, Amazon

This German book is a little offbeat (a duck strikes up an unlikely friendship with death) but it's been translated into several languages, including English, as well as made into an animated movie.

"Are you cold?" Duck asked. "Shall I warm you a little?" Nobody had ever offered to do that for death...

Where to buy?
Wolf Erlbruch, $14, Amazon

It's always hardest to say goodbye to someone you love. Todd Parr's book takes its reader through the emotions confusion, sadness, anger, loneliness, but ends on an optimistic note. It reminds little readers to always try and remember the happy times spent with a loved one and that "there will always be someone to love you and hold you tight."  

Where to buy?
Todd Parr, $19, Indigo

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