Water Bugs & Dragonflies is a delightfully simple way of explaining death to children. By using the analogy of the water bugs’ short life under water as our time on earth and their emergence as dragonflies into the bright sunlit world above the water as our life after death, Doris Stickney effectively conveys her belief that life’s most basic truths are found in a simple story. This book contains advice for parents, as well as prayers for both parents and children.

Where did Grandad go? aims to help very young children to come to terms with the idea of death and missing somebody very much, remembering all the good things about them. Tackling a difficult question with sensitivity and compassion, this book aims to guide young children to an understanding of the special place that God has for those who love him when they die. Ideal for one-to-one reading.

By Catherine House (BRF) For very young children (Hardback) €9.20

Coming to terms with the death of a friend.

Josh’s friend Max had died. A car comes to take Max’s family to the funeral and later he is buried in the ground. What has happened? Where has his friend gone?

This sensitive story, from a child’s perspective, moves through the pain and emptiness of grief and loss, to the sadness and acceptance of death and burial. It explains not only what happens to the body of a dead person, but also about the Christian belief that we will be safe in heaven after we have died.

By Stephanie Jeffs (BRF) For children aged 5-8. (Hardback) €9.20

Coming to terms with the death of a sibling.

Jenny’s sister, Rosie, was not very well. She didn’t have a sore throat, and she didn’t have a runny nose. She didn’t have spots and she didn’t feel sick. But Rosie was still unwell. Jenny wants to know why Rosie doesn’t get better.

The story shows a warm and caring family, learning to deal with long-term illness. It’s a story about suffering and death, but also about the special place in heaven where there are no more tears, or pain or suffering.

By Stephanie Jeffs (BRF) For children aged 5-8 (Hardback) €9.20

A tiny bird falls to the ground. It sets a little girl thinking sad thoughts.Will the bird go to heaven? Will I die someday? Where is heaven?With carefully chosen words and bright, attractive illustrations, this simple yet profound book answers these important questions in a positive way. A very helpful book for parents and teachers who want to guide children through bereavement issues.By Carolyn Nystrom (Candle Books) For children ages 5-7 (Hardback) €9.25

Practical ways to help children be part of the grieving process when a loved one dies.This gentle and sensitive story is about Polly who is grieving the death of her Grandma. The story is followed by a practical activity session giving ideas for ways in which children can help to prepare for the funeral and the gathering that takes place afterwards. Activities include cookery, crafts, collage and more.By Meg Harper (BRF) Ideal for children aged 6-10 (Paperback) €10.75

Helping Kids Heal Series – Zonder Books USA

Helping kids who lose a pet – a part of their family – is the goal of this tenderly written book. Losing a beloved pet can be devastating for young children. When Mickey’s dog, Scooter, dies, he wants to know, “Is Scooter in heaven?” With patience, his parents help him learn to grieve. Written with sensitivity, this tender story addresses the tough questions young children ask about the death of a pet.

By Kathleen Long Bostrom For children age 4-8 (Hardback) €7.70

Helping Kids Heal Series – Zonder Books USA

A wonderful story to meet the needs of children who are experiencing the loss of a loving grandparent to death. Parental helps for getting children through this difficult time are included in the back of the book.Sarah is sad when her grandma dies of cancer. She doesn’t understand where Grandma has gone. Sarah’s mother lets her choose if she wants to attend the funeral and she decides to go. Sarah learns about heaven and God’s wonderful plan. To remember Grandma, she plants a special garden.

By Maribeth Boelts. For children age 4-8 (Hardback) €7.70