Books

As mentioned previously, books are wonderful resources to teach children skills or to help children get through difficult situations. I have a collection of books in my office that I share with staff to read to their students depending on the different areas of needs given the makeup of their classes. Feel free to look through these books as a reference. They cover a range of different topics and are in no particular order. Toward the bottom of the page, I have listed a few books about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) that may be useful for both parents of children with ADHD and children who are diagnosed with ADHD. I have also attached a list of books about grieving for the loss of a loved one or a pet at the bottom of this page. The extensive list has books for preschool age children up to high school age children as well as adults. Feel free to reference this list if you and your child is going through the grieving process. Also, to explore the virtual social/emotional learning library, please click on the picture below!

List of Mrs. Allison's Book Resources

Have You Filled a Bucket Today? By Carol McCloud

Through simple prose and vivid illustrations, this heartwarming book encourages positive behavior as children see how rewarding it is to express daily kindness, appreciation, and love. Bucket filling and dipping are effective metaphors for understanding the effects of our actions and words on the well being of others and ourselves.

Fill a Bucket: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Young Children by Carol McCloud and Katherine Martin

This is a version of Have You Filled a Bucket Today? for younger children. The concept of bucket filling is an effective metaphor for encouraging kind and considerate behavior as well as teaching the benefits of positive relationships to children.

Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness: Three Rules for a Happier Life by Carol McCloud

Carol McCloud is taking the bucket filling message to the next level. Not only does she talk about new levels of bucket filling and bucket dipping, but this book goes into depth about how to put a lid on your bucket. There are examples of how important situations in life need a lid to protect our buckets from being empty. This beautifully illustrated book will offer be a keepsake for children and adults.

Will You Fill My Bucket? Daily Acts of Love Around the World by Carol McCloud

A simple question, Will you fill my bucket?, is fervently asked by children from twelve different countries. Sweet rhyming prose and vividly captivating illustrations delight the senses and express the deep joy and love we hope for all children. Will you fill my bucket? and the responses given will touch the heartstrings of people young and old around the world.

How Full Is Your Bucket? by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer

Through the story of a little boy named Felix, this charming book explains to children how being kind not only helps others, it helps them, too. As he goes about his day, Felix interacts with different people — his sister Anna, his grandfather, other family and friends. Some people are happy, but others are grumpy or sad. Using the metaphor of a bucket and dipper, Felix’ grandfather explains why the happy people make Felix feel good, while the others leave him feeling bad — and how Felix himself is affecting others, whether he means to or not. This beautifully illustrated adaptation takes the original book’s powerful message — that the way we relate to others has a profound effect on every aspect of our lives — and tailors it to a child’s unique needs and level of understanding.

Kindness is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler by Margery Cuyler

When Mrs. Ruler asks five of her kindergarteners to miss recess, she's got a special plan up her sleeve. She's about to teach a new golden rule: KINDNESS IS COOL! Soon the entire class is doing so many good deeds that their kindness bulletin board barely fits their classroom! From clearing the table after dinner, to helping the elderly, one kindergarten class is proving that kids really can make a difference. Count along with Mrs. Ruler's class. Can all their good deeds really add up to 100 acts of kindness? Acclaimed picture book author Margery Cuyler will inspire children of all ages to have a heart and save the world!

The Kindness Quilt by Nancy Wallace

Minna and her classmates have been asked by their teacher, Mrs. Bloom, to work on a Kindness Project. Mrs. Bloom wants them to do and draw and share an act of kindness. Minna and her family do lots of kind things, but Minna can’t decide which one is right for her project. Then she starts writing and drawing and cutting—and an idea for a paper quilt picturing many acts of kindness begins to take shape!

The Juice Box Bully: Empowering Kids to Stand Up for Others by Bob Sornson and Maria Dismondy

Have you ever seen a bully in action and done nothing about it? The kids at Pete's new school get involved, instead of being bystanders. When Pete begins to behave badly, his classmates teach him about "The Promise". Will Pete decide to shed his bullying habits and make "The Promise"?

Whole Body Listening Larry at Home! By Kristen Wilson and Elizabeth Sautter

Being a good listener means much more than just hearing what is said with the ears. It is important to break down ALL of the components of listening, to teach your kids to listen with their eyes, hands, feet, brains, hearts - indeed their whole bodies! Designed to stimulate discussions at home and at school about how we listen as a member of our family and in groups, Whole Body Listening Larry at Home teaches children with fun lessons wonderfully illustrated to bring the concepts to life. This book can read with ALL younger students by parents, teachers, etc. The book can be read with the child and the child can then read the book on his or her own, with siblings, friends, or grandparents.

I Just Don’t Life the Sound of No! by Julia Cook

NO is RJ s least favorite word . . . and he tries his best to convince his dad, his mom, and his teacher to turn No into Maybe or We’ll see or Later or I’ll think about it. Even though he doesn’t have much success, RJ keeps arguing until his teacher suggests that he try to join her classroom s Say YES to NO Club. If RJ can learn how to accept No for an answer and to disagree appropriately with his teacher and parents, he can add his name to the club s Star Board. RJ finds that lots of praise and some rewards come his way when he uses these skills the right way!

The Worst Day of My Life Ever! by Julia Cook

RJ has a rough day. He wakes up with gum stuck in his hair, misses recess because he's late to school, earns a zero on his math homework and messes up Mom's kitchen. With his mother's help, RJ learns that his problems happen because he doesn't listen or pay attention to directions. Author Julia Cook's new book shows RJ as well as all K-6 readers the steps to the fundamental social skills of listening and following instructions. When RJ learns to use these skills the right way, he has the best day of his life!

My Mouth is a Volcano! by Julia Cook

All of Louis thoughts are very important to him. In fact, his thoughts are so important to him that when he has something to say, his words begin to wiggle, and then they do the jiggle, then his tongue pushes all of his important words up against his teeth and he erupts, or interrupts others. His mouth is a volcano! My Mouth Is A Volcano takes an empathetic approach to the habit of interrupting and teaches children a witty technique to capture their rambunctious thoughts and words for expression at an appropriate time. Told from Louis’ perspective, this story provides parents, teachers, and counselors with an entertaining way to teach children the value of respecting others by listening and waiting for their turn to speak.

Personal Space Camp by Julia Cook

Louis is back! And this time, he's learning all about personal space. Louis, a self-taught space expert is delighted to learn that his teacher has sent him to the principal's office to attend personal space camp. Eager to learn more about lunar landings, space suits, and other cosmic concepts, Louis soon discovers that he has much to learn about personal space right here on earth. Written with style, wit, and rhythm, personal space camp addresses the complex issue of respect for another person’s physical boundaries. Told from Louis’ perspective, this story is a must-have resource for parents, teachers, and counselors who want to communicate the idea of personal space in a manner that connects with kids.

A Bad Case of Tattle Tongue by Julia Cook

Josh the Tattler doesn't have any friends. He tattles on his classmates, on his brother, and even on his dog! He tattles so much that he wakes up one night to find that his tongue is yellow, unusually long, and covered in bright purple spots! Will a bad case of Tattle Tongue teach him a lesson? A Bad Case of Tattle Tongue gives teachers and counselors a humorous, cleverly creative way to address the time-consuming tattling-related issues that often sap classroom energy and thwart teaching opportunities. Parents who "battle the tattle" at home, on the playground, in the grocery store, or anywhere else, can use this book to both entertain and enlighten their children about "The Tattle Rules." Every adult that desires to help children understand the differences between unnecessary tattling and the necessity of warning others about important matters needs this book!

Cliques, Phonies, and Other Balony by Trevor Romain

Cliques can make you sick. If you’re on the outside, you’re treated like dirt. And if you’re on the inside, you have to follow the rules. Who needs more rules at school? Written for every kid who has ever felt excluded or trapped by a clique, this book blends humor with practical advice as it tackles a serious subject. Trevor Romain starts by explaining what cliques are and why they exist: because everyone wants to have friends. He reveals why some cliques are so annoying—and often full of phonies. And he shares the secret to being popular: just be yourself!

The Way I Feel by Janan Cain

The zany characters who sniffle, soar and shriek through this book will help kids understand the concept of such emotions as joy, disappointment, boredom and anger. "The Way I Feel" will also show kids how to express their feelings with words.

The Way I Act by Steve Metzger

A companion to Cain’s award-winning 2000 title, The Way I Feel, The Way I Act uses detailed illustrations, type faces and vivid color to complement the simple verses that explain character traits like compassion and bravery. With verses created by Metzger, The Way I Act follows the pattern established by The Way I Feel, introducing a wide variety of character traits, including some not usually attributed to young children. Metzger’s carefully crafted text is sensitive and free of bias and slang. Together with Cain s sometimes zany characters, The Way I Act shows scenarios that kids can identify with peering at bugs with a magnifying glass, making a bed, finishing a puzzle, sweeping up a mess. The text cites even more examples that define words such as curious, responsible, persistent and capable. As Metzger points out, the scenarios on each two-page spread let kids imagine how they might act on a curlicue slide, when meeting new children, when an elderly grandparent needs help.

Chester Raccoon and the Big Bad Bully by Audrey Penn

In this latest addition to the Kissing Hand book collection, Chester Raccoon must learn to deal with another common problem of childhood: a bully at school. When Mrs. Raccoon learns that there is a bully problem at school, she decides to investigate the situation. But after seeing the bully for herself, she shares a story about a forest that was full of smooth yellow stones, and how the animals living there changed a pointy stone they found into a smooth stone so that it wouldn't hurt any tender paws. Chester, Ronny, and Cassy follow the spirit of Mrs. Raccoon's story when they next encounter the Bully. Approaching him as a group, they invite him to play, proving that the best way to get rid of an enemy is to make him or her a friend. This book encourages children to understand that many child bullies are themselves unhappy and gives readers a good example of settling differences by peaceful means. Educators will embrace this story about a positive strategy for dealing with a bully.

Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell

Molly Lou Melon may be tiny, clumsy, buck-toothed, and with a voice "like a bullfrog being squeezed by a boa constrictor," but she doesn't mind. Her grandmother has utmost confidence in her, and tells her at every turn to believe in herself. "Sing out clear and strong and the world will cry tears of joy," Grandma says. But Molly Lou's self-assurance is put to the test when she moves to a new town, away from her friends and beloved grandmother. During her first week of school, Ronald Durkin taunts Molly Lou Melon in the dull-witted but sharp-edged manner of career bullies, calling her "shrimpo" and "bucky-toothed beaver." Our heroine barely flinches as she systematically sets out to prove herself, and Ronald Durkin ends up feeling pretty foolish.

I Like Myself by Karen Beaumont

High on energy and imagination, this ode to self-esteem encourages kids to appreciate everything about themselves--inside and out. Messy hair? Beaver breath? So what! Here's a little girl who knows what really matters.

The Little While Owl by Tracey Corderoy and Jane Chapman

A little white owl has no parents, no name, and few possessions, but he has the courage to explore the world and meet new friends. He does it through storytelling, even when facing the most reluctant of listeners. Setting out with his backpack, he swoops down from the sky to meet a group of colorful owls. Although they shun him at first, they eventually become immersed in his tales of adventure and fantasy. When he leaves, they follow him home, and when he sits under the stars drinking cocoa and eating toast, they keep him company. The little white owl's enthusiasm for life is as obvious as the rainbow of colored feathers on the bigger owls. The belief in the magic of stories is catching and continues to the very end of this book. This tale could be read aloud in a story hour about owls, friendship, or acceptance, or to encourage storytelling.

If Everybody Did by Jo Ann Stover

The hilarious and terrible consequences of everyone doing his own thing are portrayed by author/artist Jo Ann Stover in If Everybody Did. Children and adults alike will enjoy this precautionary tale with its concise rhyming text, and amusing illustrations.

Superflex takes on Rock Brain and the Team of Unthinkables by Stephanie Madrigal

This is the storybook portion of the package, "Superflex...A Superhero Social Thinking Curriculum"...now available separately for those who wish to have extra copies. It's not the full Curriculum. This full-colored storybook, tells the story of how Superflex came to be. Children will become familiar with Superflex's "SocialTown," and learn about the cast of Unthinkables who are trying to overtake and rid the town of Superflex forever! Superflex and his sidekick dog, Bark, go on their first mission to save the citizens of SocialTown. The purpose of the Superhero Social Thinking (SST) curriculum itself is to provide the social-thinking educator, teacher, or parent with a fun, motivating, and non-threatening way for students to explore social thinking while increasing their knowledge of social expectations, their awareness of their own behavior and how to modify their behaviors with Superflexible strategies.

Superflex takes on Glassman and the Team of Unthinkables by Stephanie Madrigal and Michelle Garcia Winner

In this new teaching comic book in the Superflex series, the superhero, Superflex, swoops down to help Aiden overcome the Unthinkable, Glassman (who causes our over-reactions to small things), at just the right time: the first day of school! This very popular comic book works well with K-5 students. Superflex shows elementary school students how they can use strategies to conquer their own "Team of Unthinkables," including Glassman and other characters. In the process, students learn to calm Glassman and ways to assess the size of problems and other issues. As students face Glassman and other Unthinkables, they build up and learn to flex nimble, new mind muscles -- thinking skills that help them manage and work on the thoughts and behaviors that may be causing them problems. The step-by-step strategies and lessons in this book guide students, with their teachers and parents, through a full "training session" in their own Superflex academy. Quizzes and tip sheets are built into the book. By teaching students to explore the differences between Superflex and the student's own motley crew of Unthinkables, students can better understand and modify their behaviors and, as they progress and graduate from the academy, see the rewards of doing so!

Superflex takes on Brain Eater and the Team of Unthinkables by Stephanie Madrigal and Michelle Garcia Winner

Throughout the Superflex series, Superflex takes on different unthinkables with his Social Thinking powers. In this newest installment of the Superflex series, the Social Thinking superhero takes on his nemesis Brain Eater. Brain Eater distracts kids from doing their everyday tasks, like getting ready for school or listening in class. By using his Social Thinking strategies and his tool, the Superflex Distractor Shield, he is able to defeat the distracting disputant Brain Eater, while also teaching the students invaluable strategies for defeating their own Brain Eaters! This book is a great tool to help kids who have a hard time staying on task due to their own Brain Eaters getting the best of them!

You are a Social Detective!: Explaining Social Thinking to Kids by Michelle Garcia Winner

Every one of us is a Social Detective. We are good Social Detectives when we use our eyes, ears, and brains to figure out what others are planning to do next or are presently doing and what they mean by their words and deeds. This entertaining comic book offers different ways that can be reviewed repeatedly with students to teach them how to develop their own social detective skills.

My Friend with Autism by Beverly Bishop

My Friend with Autism is the exceptional result of parent Beverly Bishop’s determination to educate her son’s classmates about autism, thus helping her son fit in at school. A peer narrator explains that his friend with autism is good at some things and not so good at others—just like everyone else! In an informative, positive tone, he addresses issues such as: Sensory Sensitivity, Communication Differences, Unique Ways of Playing, Insistence on Routine.

The Autism Acceptance Book by Ellen Sabin

The Autism Acceptance Book is an interactive, educational, and character-building book that introduces children to the challenges faced by people with autism while also supporting their personal journey toward appreciating and respecting people's differences. This book offers educational information, conversation-starters, and engaging exercises that invite children to "walk in someone else's shoes" as they learn to treat others the same ways they would like to be treated themselves.

Heartprints by P.K. Hallinan

In this delightful and warm book, the author weaves a story of children helping others and leaving heartprints all along the way.

Bully B.E.A.N.S. by Julia Cook

The latest story from hit author Julia Cook, Bully B.E.A.N.S. is a fun story that teaches people of all ages to become proactive when it comes to bullying. This book can help children and adults understand why bullying happens and what they can do to stop it. Finally, a bullying book that speaks to the bystander!

One Smile by Cindy McKinley

Even the smallest acts of kindness can powerfully impact the lives of others. This truth is beautifully demonstrated as we follow the far-reaching effects of young Katie's innocent smile. With this simple gesture, she ignites a circle of warmth that flows from person to person, touching the hearts and lives of people she may never even meet.

Ordinary Mary's Extraordinary Deed by Emily Pearson

Ordinary Mary-an ordinary girl from an ordinary school, on her way to her ordinary house, stumbles upon ordinary blueberries. When she decides to pick them for her neighbor, Mrs. Bishop, she starts a chain reaction that multiplies around the world. Mrs. Bishop makes blueberry muffins and gives them to her paperboy and four others-one of whom is Mr. Stevens, who then helps five different people with their luggage - one of whom is Maria, who then helps five people - including a man named Joseph who didn't have enough money for his groceries - and so on, until the deed comes back to Mary. It's a feel-good story that inspires and celebrates a world full of ordinary deeds!

Only One You by Linda Kranz

There's only one you in this great big world. Make it a better place. Adri's mama and papa share some of the wisdom they have gained through the years with their eager son. Their words, simple and powerful, are meant to comfort and guide him as he goes about exploring the world. This exquisitely illustrated book explodes with color and honest insights. Kranz's uniquely painted rockfish, set against vibrant blue seas, make an unforgettable and truly special impression. Only One You will inspire parents and children of all ages as they swim through the sea of life.

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein

Beatrice Bottomwell has NEVER (not once!) made a mistake...Meet Beatrice Bottomwell: a nine-year-old girl who has never (not once!) made a mistake. She never forgets her math homework, she never wears mismatched socks, and she ALWAYS wins the yearly talent show at school. In fact, Beatrice holds the record of perfection in her hometown, where she is known as The Girl Who Never Makes Mistakes. Life for Beatrice is sailing along pretty smoothly until she does the unthinkable–she makes her first mistake. And in a very public way!

One by Kathryn Otoshi

Blue is a quiet color. Red’s a hothead who likes to pick on Blue. Yellow, Orange, Green, and Purple don’t like what they see, but what can they do? When no one speaks up, things get out of hand — until One comes along and shows all the colors how to stand up, stand together, and count. As budding young readers learn about numbers, counting, and primary and secondary colors, they also learn about accepting each other's differences and how it sometimes just takes one voice to make everyone count.

Zero by Kathryn Otoshi

Zero is a big round number. When she looks at herself, she just sees a hole right in her center. Every day she watches the other numbers line up to count: "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 . . . !" "Those numbers have value. That's why they count," she thinks. But how could a number worth nothing become something? Zero feels empty inside. She watches One having fun with the other numbers. One has bold strokes and squared corners. Zero is big and round with no corners at all. "If I were like One, then I can count too," she thinks. So she pushes and pulls, stretches and straightens, forces and flattens herself, but in the end she realizes that she can only be Zero. As budding young readers learn about numbers and counting, they are also introduced to accepting different body types, developing social skills and character, and learning what it means to find value in yourself and in others.

Howard B. Wigglebottom: Listens to His Heart by Howard Binkow

Howard, a loveable bunny, stopped doing what he loved the most because friends made fun of him. He wanted to belong and fit in so desperately that he tried but did not succeed at all kinds of activities. One day with the help of his grandfather, he learned to be true to himself. Tips and lessons are included.

Howard B. Wigglebottom: Learns About Bullies by Howard Binkow and Susan F. Cornelison

Howard was being bullied at school. His intuition told him to let the teacher know. Instead he chose different strategies and they all failed. He finally told the teacher and she took action to make him feel okay and safe. Tips and Lessons are included.

Books/Resources About Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Maybe You Know My Kid by Mary Cahill Fowler (For Parents)

Driven to Distraction by Edward "Ned" Hallowell (For Parents)

Taking Charge of ADHD by Russell Barkley (For Parents)

Smart But Scattered by Peggy Dawson (For Parents)

ADDiTude Magazine - https://www.additudemag.com/

Putting on the Brakes by Patricia Quinn and Judith Stern (For Parents and Children)

Eagle Eyes by Jeanne Gehret (Children's Story Book)

Shelley the Hyperactive Turtle by Deborah Moss (Children's Story Book)

What Were You Thinking? by Bryan Smith (Children's Story Book)

My Day is Ruined by Bryan Smith (Children's Story Book)

Of Course It's a Big Deal by Bryan Smith (Children's Story Book)

It Was Just Right Here! by Bryan Smith (Children's Story Book)

I Can't Believe You Said That by Julia Cook (Children's Story Book)

Personal Space Camp by Julia Cook (Children's Story Book)

My Mouth is a Volcano by Julia Cook (Children's Story Book)

It's Hard to Be a Verb by Julia Cook (Children's Story Book)

I Just Want to Do It My Way by Julia Cook (Children's Story Book)

I Just Don't Like the Sound of No by Julia Cook (Children's Story Book)

Books for Dealing with Grief

For Preschool Children:

Saying Goodbye to Daddy by Judith Vigna (1991)

This is an excellent book about a kindergarten girl whose father dies in a car accident. She has a difficult time coming to terms with the loss. She uses denial and avoidance to diminish the pain of the loss. However, the reality of the funeral confronts her with what she is missing. Her mother and grandfather are there to help her with the confusion and denial. Because she goes through a range of emotions, this books is highly recommended.

I Miss You: A First Look At Death by Pat Thomas, Leslie Harker (Illustrator)

When a close friend or family member dies, it can be difficult for children to express their feelings. This book helps boys and girls understand that death is a natural complement to life, and that grief and a sense of loss are normal feelings for them to have following a loved one's death. Titles in this sensitively presented series explore the dynamics of various relationships experienced by children of preschool through early school age. Kids are encouraged to understand personal feelings and social problems as a first step in dealing with them. Written by psychotherapist and counselor Pat Thomas, these books promote positive interaction among children, parents, and teachers. The story lines are simple and direct-easily accessible to younger children. There are full-color illustrations on every page.

A Quilt for Elizabeth by Tiffault, Bomaha

This is a beautiful story about a little girl whose father gets sick and dies. After a while the girl and her grandmother decide to make a quilt from her father's garments. This book is highly recommended because it deals with the loss and mourning in a highly creative manner.

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

THE INVISIBLE STRING is a very simple approach to overcoming the fear of loneliness or separation with an imaginative flair that children can easily identify with and remember. Here is a warm and delightful lesson teaching young and old that we aren't ever really alone and reminding children (and adults!) that when we are loved beyond anything we can imagine. "People who love each other are always connected by a very special String, made of love. Even though you can't see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart, and know that you are always connected to the ones you love." Thus begins this heart-warming and reassuring story that addresses the issue of "separation anxiety" (otherwise known as the sense of existential 'aloneness') to children of all ages. Specifically written to address children's fear of being apart from the ones they love, The Invisible String delivers a particularly compelling message in today's uncertain times that though we may be separated from the ones we care for, whether through anger, or distance or even death, love is the unending connection that binds us all, and, by extension, ultimately binds every person on the planet to everyone else. Parents and children everywhere who are looking for reassurance and reaffirmation of the transcendent power of love, to bind, connect and comfort us through those inevitable times when life challenges us!

I Heard Your Daddy Died by Mark Scrivani and Aitken

This book is for children ages 2-6. It is a simple and helpful tool for family members and caregivers to read to the child who has lost a parent. This book lets the child know it is okay for them to cry and be sad as well as be happy and play. The book includes many ideas to help the child to remember their parent.

When Your Grandparent Dies: A Child’s Guide to Good Grief by Victoria Ryan

Elf-help Books for Kids - Addressing the needs of children and the adults who care for them. Losing a grandparent is often a child's first experience with grief. The ordeal can be as bewildering as it is painful. Explaining what happens from a child's-eye view, the little elves in this book depict the difficult days before, after, and beyond a grandparent's death. They explore the meaning of death and heaven, as well as how to stay close in spirit with a grandparent who has died. With ideas for action and questions for discussion, this creative guide will help you help your grieving child to create comforting memories and find closure.

Where Are You? A Child’s Book About Loss by Laura Olivieri

Where Are You: A Child's Book About Loss is a kind and supportive text with beautiful illustrations designed to help children of all ages cope with the loss of a loved one. It is created with love and care so that even the youngest readers will find comfort during this stressful and difficult time.

Gentle Willow: A Story for Children about Dying by Joyce Mills

Written for children who may not survive their illness or for the children who know them, this tender and touching tale helps address feelings of disbelief, anger, and sadness, along with love and compassion. Amanda and Little Tree discover that their friend Gentle Willow isn't feeling well. Amanda summons the Tree Wizards, who visit Gentle Willow and determine that they can't fix her. Amanda is angry at first, but eventually she listens to the Tree Wizards as they explain that death is a transformation and journey into the unknown. They also counsel Amanda that the medicine she can give Gentle Willow is love. In a final act of love, Amanda comforts Gentle Willow, who is afraid, with a story about the caterpillar who transforms into a butterfly. A new "Note to Parents" addresses how to cope with death and dying.

A Story for Hippo: A Book About Loss by Puttock, S., and Bartlett, A.

The above book is a picture book that is helpful for all ages even adults. It stays clear of any death conceptions, culture, and religion. The characters are all animals. The story revolves around the hippo and his friend the monkey. The monkey and hippo enjoy spending time together until one day when hippo announces that he must go (die). He leaves and dies. Monkey is so sad and unhappy moping around... until the chameleon comes and talks with him and convinces him that he can say the same stories that hippo used to tell him and then hippo and the chameleon become friends and monkey is on his way to healing from the grief.

Goodbye Mousie by Robie H. Harris

One morning a boy finds that his pet, Mousie, won't wake up. The truth is Mousie has died. At first the boy doesn't believe it. He gets very mad at Mousie for dying, and then he feels very sad. But talking about Mousie, burying Mousie in a special box, and saying good-bye helps this boy begin to feel better about the loss of his beloved pet.

I'll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm

In this gentle, moving story, Elfie, a dachshund, and her special boy progress happily through life together. When she is young, Elfie is full of pep and pranks; but as her master grows taller and taller, Elfie grows fatter and slower. One morning Elfie does not wake up. The family grieves and buries her, and the boy refuses a new puppy. He is not yet ready for another pet; but when he is, he will tell that one, as he told Elsie every night, "I'll always love you."

Sophie by Mem Fox

Sophie loves her Grandpa. And her Grandpa loves Sophie. They are best friends. And then one day there is no Grandpa. . . . Family love and the natural cycle of birth, life, and death are tenderly portrayed in this moving story.

For Elementary School Children:

Sad Isn't Bad: A Good-Grief Guidebook for Kids Dealing With Loss (Self-Help Books for Kids) by Michaelene Mundy

Loaded with positive, life-affirming advice for coping with loss as a child, this guide tells children what they need to know after a loss--that the world is still safe; life is good; and hurting hearts do mend. Written by a school counselor, this book helps comfort children facing of the worst and hardest kind of reality. Full color.

Rachel and the Upside Down Heart by Eileen Douglas

A great gift; a magnificent true compelling story that will open the hearts and minds of children to truly understand the profound words of "Love is stronger than death". Earl Grollman, DHL,DD author of Talking about Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child. When Rachel is four years old, her daddy dies, and Rachel's life changes forever. She and her mommy ,from their house in Kentucky to the busy streets of New York City. At first Rachael feels so sad that it's as if her heart is upside down. But after a while Rachel discovers happiness - while keeping the memory of her father alive in her heart.

The Next Place by Warren Hanson

An inspirational journey of light and hope to a place where earthly hurts are left behind.

Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children by Bryan Mellonie and Robert Ingpen

When the death of a relative, a friend, or a pet happens or is about to happen . . . how can we help a child to understand? Lifetimes is a moving book for children of all ages, even parents too. It lets us explain life and death in a sensitive, caring, beautiful way. Lifetimes tells us about beginnings. And about endings. And about living in between. With large, wonderful illustrations, it tells about plants. About animals. About people. It tells that dying is as much a part of living as being born. It helps us to remember. It helps us to understand. Lifetimes . . . a very special, very important book for you and your child. The book that explains—beautifully—that all living things have their own special Lifetimes.

Help Me Say Goodbye : Activities for Helping Kids Cope When a Special Person Dies by Janis Silverman

An art therapy and activity book for children coping with death. Sensitive exercises address all the questions children may have during this emotional and troubling crisis. Children are encouraged to express in pictures what they are often incapable of expressing in words.

Everett Anderson's Good-bye by Lucille Clifton

Everett Anderson's Goodbye is a touching portrait of a little boy who is trying to come to grips with his father's death. Lucille Clifton captures Everett's conflicting emotions as he confronts this painful reality. We see him struggle through many stages, from denial and anger to depression and, finally, acceptance. In this spare and moving poem, the last in this acclaimed series, Lucille Clifton brings Everett Anderson's life full circle.

The Saddest Time by Norma Simon

This book contains three short stories about different kinds of death and grief; an uncle with a terminal illness, a classmate killed in an accident and a grandparent who dies.

What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies? By Romain, T.

Trevor Romain’s new book—simple, insightful, and straight from the heart—is for any child who has lost a loved one or other special person. Trevor talks directly to kids about what death means and how to cope. He asks the kinds of questions kids have about death—Why? How? What next? Is it my fault? What’s a funeral?—in basic, straightforward terms. He describes and discusses the overwhelming emotions involved in grieving—sadness, fear, anger, guilt—and offers practical strategies for dealing with them. He also suggests meaningful ways to remember and honor the person who has died. When someone dies, adults are often involved with their own loss and grief and not as available to children as they might otherwise be. This little book, full of concrete advice and expressive illustrations, offers the comfort and reassurance that children need during these difficult times. Written to and for kids, it’s also recommended for parents and other relatives, educators, counselors, and youth workers.

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf: A Story of Life for All Ages by Buscaglia, L.

This story by Leo Buscaglia is a warm, wonderfully wise and strikingly simple story about a leaf names Freddie. How Freddie and his companion leaves change with the passing seasons, finally falling to the ground with winter's snow, is an inspiring allegory illustrating the delicate balance between life and death. The Fall of Freddie the Leaf is a warm and thought-provoking story and both children and adults will be deeply touched by this inspiring book. This 20th anniversary edition of this beloved classic has helped thousands of people come to grips with life and death.

I Had a Friend Named Peter by Janice Cohen

When Betsy learns about the death of a friend, her parents and kindergarten teacher answer questions about dying, funerals, and the burial process.

Old Pig by Margaret Wild

Old Pig and Granddaughter have lived together for a long, long time. They share everything, until one day when Old Pig does not get up as usual for breakfast. Calmly she puts her affairs in order, and then she takes Granddaughter on a last, long walk. Old Pig and Granddaughter say goodbye to each other in the best way they know.

What's Heaven? (Grandparent) by Maria Shriver

What should parents say when a loved one dies? Heaven is a difficult subject that always comes up at tough times, and Maria Shriver has written a very special book precisely for these stressful moments. What's Heaven? is the story of Kate, a little girl whose great-grandma has just died. She seeks answers, and her mother helps her learn about Heaven. The many questions in this book are real, coming from Shriver's own children, nieces, and nephews when her grandmother Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy passed away. With 900,000 copies of the book now in print, the loving, confident, and ultimately uplifting answers Shriver provides are helping readers' families come together, feel closer to one another, and experience peace during the times when they need it most.

Badger's Parting Gifts by Susan Varley

Badger's friends are sad when he dies but treasure the memories he left them.

Jasper's Day by Marjorie Blain Parker

Today Riley's family is celebrating Jasper's Day. Everything they do will be in honor of Jasper -- sort of like a birthday. But it isn't Jasper's birthday. The old dog's cancer has gotten really bad. Riley knows they can't let him suffer any longer, but letting go will be the hardest thing he's ever had to do. Marjorie Blain Parker's tender story is filled with smiles, tears and the joy of special memories, and Janet Wilson's gentle pastels capture the depth of love shared by a boy and his dog. Together, they speak of acceptance, remembrance and the importance of cherishing life's every moment.

For Older Elementary and Middle School Children:

A Taste of Blackberries by Smith, D. B.

The story of a little boy whose best friend dies and his struggles to come to terms with the loss. The story is about the events leading up to the death, the loss and the funeral. At the end, with the help of adults, there is some resolution of the loss.

You Shouldn't Have to Say Goodbye by Hermes, P.

This is a touching story of a young girl's struggle to deal with her mother's imminent death and of their interactions with each other. There are some tender moments between the parents and the child as the story builds step-by-step to the inevitable end.

Beat the Turtle Drum by Greene, C.

This is a beautiful story about the love and friendship between two sisters. When the younger one dies after falling out of a tree, the older one (thirteen years old) talks about her feelings in a very honest, sincere and realistic manner. An excellent book for children who have lost a sibling.

Tear Soup by Pat Schwiebert and Chuck DeKlyen

If you are going to buy only one book on grief, this is the one to get! It will validate your grief experience, and you can share it with your children. You can leave it on the coffee table so others will pick it up, read it, and then better appreciate your grieving time. Grand's Cooking Tips section at the back of the book is rich with wisdom and concrete recommendations. Better than a casserole! Hardbound; 56 full-color pages. Affirms the bereaved. Educates the un-bereaved. A building-block for children..... WINNER! of the 2001 Theologos Book Award, presented by the Association of Theological Booksellers.

For parents:

Talking About Death by Earl A. Grollman

This is a most practical guide for parents and other adults who are faced with explaining death to a child while at the same time often struggling with their own feelings about death. It addresses many questions children may ask and provides suggestions for responding, keeping in mind the developmental age of the child and the unique circumstances of the individual loss. It provides read-along passages for children whose parents who may need some help finding the words to express their responses.

I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye: Surviving, Coping, and Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One by Brook Noel

Each year about eight million Americans suffer the death of someone close to them. Now for thse who face the challenges of sudden death, there is a hand to hold, written by two women who have experienced sudden loss. This updated edition of the best-selling bereavement classic will touch, comfort, uplift and console. Authors Brook Noel and Pamela D. Blair, Ph.D. explore sudden death and offers a comforting hand to hold for those who are grieving the sudden death of a loved one. Featured on ABC World News, Fox and Friends and many other shows, this book acts as a touchstone of sanity through difficult times. I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye covers such difficult topics as the first few weeks, suicide, death of a child, children and grief, funerals and rituals, physical effects, homicide and depression. New material covers the unique circumstances of loss, men and women's grieving styles, religion and faith, myths and misunderstandings, I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye reflects the shifting face of grief.

Children Grieve, Too: Helping Children Cope With Grief by Joy Johnson, Marvin Johnson

Gives needed information to those who work with grieving children. Basic, reader friendly, and talks about what you really need to know and how children respond to grief from infancy to teen.

How Do We Tell the Children? by Dan Schaefer and Christine Lyons

Many children's lives are touched by a serious illness within their families, and some will be faced with the loss of a parent or grandparent, or the death of a sibling or beloved pet. How can adults help young