World Book Day is a day dedicated to inspiring a love of reading in children and young people. Reading with children is a wonderful way of helping them to feel understood and can provide families with a low-pressure way to talk about difficult topics.
For children with a sibling who is seriously ill or going through bereavement, books can offer the words for feelings that they may be struggling to understand. Books also provide families with the opportunity to connect and share quality time together. Below, we have a selection of books for ages three all the way up to sixteen, covering sibling illness, big feelings and bereavement. The age ratings we have shared are just suggestions – you know your child best.
Sibling illness & change
1. The Perfect Shelter – Clare Helen Welsh (approx. 3–6)
Two sisters build a shelter together, with the story mirroring what it can feel like when a sibling becomes seriously ill and they spend time in hospital. It can be a helpful starting point for families wanting a gentle way to talk about worry, hospital and how love can remain steady even when life feels unsteady.
2. Benny’s Hat – Juliet Clare Bell (approx. 4–8)
This book tells the story of Friz, whose big brother gets sick and later dies. The book was written with involvement from bereaved children and families, in partnership with Edward’s Trust, Acorns Children’s Hospice and Child Bereavement UK. It can be especially helpful for siblings who may feel on the edge of the family unit whilst parents and carers focus on the unwell child.
3. The Invisible String – Patrice Karst (approx. 3–8)
A beautiful tale that focuses on the idea that we are always connected to those we love through an invisible string, even if we are apart. It can be a reassuring read for children who are struggling with separation (perhaps because of long-term hospital stays).
Grief & remembering
4. Always and Forever – Alan Durant (approx. 3–6)
When Fox dies, his family are distraught, but over time, they realise that he remains in their hearts and memories as they remember what they loved about him. This gentle tale of loss uses animals to reassure children that grief changes over time, and love and memories don’t disappear.
5. The Memory Tree – Britta Teckentrup (approx. 3–8)
A gentle story about the loss of a loved one. This book tells the story of a group of woodland animals mourning the death of their friend by sharing memories and celebrating his life. This can be a good fit for families who want to focus more on remembrance rather than bereavement. Please note that this story uses the term “went to sleep forever”, just in case this is a term you prefer not to use.
6. Where are you Lydie? – Emma Poore (approx. 3–7)
A beautifully illustrated book written by a mother in memory of her own daughter for her two sons. It gently highlights that grief and joy can coexist. It’s written with honesty and relatability in mind so that other grieving families, especially those that have experienced baby loss, can help young children make sense of grief. This book has been recommended by Shooting Star Children’s Hospice, Marie Curie and SANDS.
Big feelings in young people
7. Michael Rosen’s Sad Book – Michael Rosen (approx. 9–14)
Written by Michael Rosen, chronicling his journey with grief after the death of his son, Eddie, aged 19. It’s a simple, honest book that will resonate with young people and adults alike. It’s not about fixing feelings; it’s about validating the confusing feelings that come with bereavement. This can be a supportive read for a pre-teen or young person to read alone or with their family.
8. You Will Be OK: A Young Person’s Guide to Managing Grief – Julie Stokes (approx. 9–16)
A practical guide for pre-teens and young people, with simple, manageable tools to help them cope with the difficult days when dealing with grief. From learning how to understand your emotions to finding ways to cope moment by moment, it’s a useful book to dip in and out of when needed.
World Book Day is a reminder that stories can be a gentle way to support families through difficult times and to create small moments of connection when there’s a lot going on. We hope this list helps you find a book that feels right for your child and your family. Even a few pages together can make a difference.