Book Recommendations
Books can serve as tools that help children and teens process their grief. They may help them feel less alone by relating to characters who have experienced something similar. They can also help them understand complex feelings and the permanence of death, as well as help them remember their loved ones.
See below for book recommendations that deal with grief and loss. You can check out these titles at your library, or purchase them from your local bookstore. We support Libélula Books, an independent, queer and BIPOC owned bookshop in the heart of Barrio Logan (Kumeyaay land).
Picture Books: “Always Remember” by written by Cece Meng and illustrated by Jago. “One Wave At a Time” written by Holly Thompson and illustrated by Ashley Crowley. “Death Is Stupid” by Anastasia Higginbotham.
Middle Grade Books: “You’ll Find Me” written by Amanda Rawson Hill and illustrated by Joanne Lew Vriethoff. “Red, White, and Whole” by Rajani LaRocca. “When You Trap A Tiger” by Kae Keller.
Young Adult Books: “The Boy In The Black Suit” by Jason Reynolds.”Yo No Soy Tu Perfecta Hija Mexicana” (“I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter”) by Erika Sánchez. “Fire Keeper’s Daughter” by Angeline Boulley.