If only these books weren’t necessary.
No young child should have to deal with the death of a parent, but it happens.
Almost all of the books deal with the death of a mother. The only one which doesn’t, has anthropomorphised animals. If anyone has good recommendations for books about the death of a father — I would appreciate them.
These books vary in their tone, and their approach.
Each has a place, but not all will be appropriate in every case.
THE SCAR by Charlotte Moundlic, illustrated by Olivier Tallec.
Stunning — from the preparatory grief in the days before his mother’s death, to his eventual acceptance, a young boy takes us through the roller coaster of emotions tied in with grief. He is angry, happy, and so scared and worried about looking after his father: ‘he looked like a flannel, all crumpled and wet.’ He is afraid that he will forget his mother — her voice, her scent — so he tries to keep her close by keeping the windows shut to preserve her smell, by keeping a scab on his knee to hear her voice.
MUM’S JUMPER by Jayde Perkin.
A simple, yet profound and moving discussion on grief, rather than death, as a young girl adapts to life without her mother.
MISSING MUMMY by Rebecca Cobb.
Told in the first person by a young child struggling to understand the death of their mother. Emotions are simply told and explained, and the realities of death are dealt with, as is the importance of sharing stories and memories, and supporting each other. A simple story, with impact.
ALWAYS AND FOREVER by Alan Durant, illustrated by Debi Gliori.
Otter, Mole, and Hare struggle to continue after the death of their father-figure, Fox. They share memories, which make them miss him more. A visit from their friend Squirrel helps them remember happier times. A lovely story about memories, sadness, and coming through the other end. Still remembering and still connected. And creating ways to stay connected.
LUNA’S RED HAT: AN ILLUSTRATED STORYBOOK TO HELP CHILDREN COPE WITH LOSS AND SUICIDE by Emmi Smid, with a contribution by Dr Riet Fiddelaers-Jaspers.
It doesn’t really pull many punches in the anger and hurt Luna feels after her mother’s suicide, but instead offers simple, child-appropriate, messages about why someone would commit suicide. Completely non-judgmental.
This post is part in a series by Solidarity Team member Anne (she/her)
Thanks for your blog, nice to read. Do not stop.