These stories offer an engaging way to introduce children to some inspiring elderly characters, the challenges of aging, and the importance of sharing intentional acts of kindness and service with elderly friends.
16 Top Poetry Books for Kids and Families
Explore big ideas and discover the joy of verse through poetry.
Whether they are playful or introspective, poems offers a unique perspective on the world around us. Challenge kids - and yourself - to discover poetry that speaks to you. Then share it with others in magic mail designed to spread cheer and comfort.
Conversation Starters
What is poetry?
After reading a book of poetry, which poem was your favorite? Why?
Which poem did you find confusing? Let's see if we can make sense of it together.
Look for a poem that evokes a strong emotion in your child. Notice together how simple words in a relatively short poem can have such a strong impact.
Together find a poem you would enjoy sharing with someone who could use some comfort. Create a greeting card featuring this poem and share it.
Featured Title
Dictionary for a Better World: Poems, Quotes, and Anecdotes from A to Z by Irene Latham and Charles Waters
This collection of poetry overflows with opportunities to launch big-hearted conversations. Beginning with Acceptance and Ally and moving through the alphabet to conclude with Xenial and Zest, each entry in this unique dictionary features a poem, a short note on the poetic device used, a relevant quote, a thoughtful anecdote from one of the authors, and an invitation to TRY IT - or put each idea to work in your family’s life. This book is one to savor!
More DGT Favorites
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: The Poetry of Mister Rogers by Fred Rogers and Luke Flowers
This compilation features 75 songs from the beloved television re-envisioned as poetry. Heart-warming and hilarious, these poems are imbued with the kind, earnest essence that we love so well.
A Light in the Attic and essentially everything written by Shel Silverstein
Nothing else compares to the always silly, sometimes icky, and often deeper-than-they-appear poems by the incomparable Shel Silverstein.
All the Wild Wonders by Wendy Cooling
This collection of poetry features poets all around the world. It's designed to help students think critically about issues facing the environment and to encourage them to work toward a brighter future.
A Poke in the I, A Kick in the Head, and A Foot in the Mouth, all by Paul B. Jeneczko
All three of these books explore poetry in unique ways. Even better, they subtlety call attention to important social issues or big-hearted ideas that are sure to spark creative conversations with your family.
Feathers by Eileen Spinelli
This collection is as lyrical and charming as its subject matter. Explore the bird world with creative, funny, and beautiful poems that just might inspire your to burst into song!
Food Fight: Poets Join the Fight Against Hunger with Poems to Favorite Food edited and illustrated by Michael J. Rosen
Thirty-three children’s poets contribute to the fight against hunger by penning poems about food. Read odes to pies, pizzas, and matzo ball soup.
If Not for the Cat by Jack Prelutsky
This haiku collection is one part calming meditation, one part poetic gymnastics. This is a family favorite for our blogger!
Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices by Joel Fleishman and Eric Beddows
This award-winning collection is especially fun with a proud new reader. Celebrate the boisterous cacophony of the natural world through poetry together.
Lend a Hand: Poems About Giving by John Frank
So much good is captured in the pages of this book. Kind acts of children are captured in the thoughtful, observant way only poetry can accomplish.
Mirror, Mirror: A Book of Reverso Poems by Marilyn Singer
Fairy tale scenes are re-imagined from two perspectives with a unique technique that you'll have to read to believe.
Old Elm Speaks: Tree Poems by Kristine O'Connell George
This inspiring collection of tree poems is one part meditation and one part playful exploration of our stately neighbors.
Peace is an Offering by Annette LeBox
A group of neighborhood kids discover peace in the beautiful world around them. This poetic book will open your eyes to the world around you.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Yes, Silverstein is such a giant in children's poetry, he deserves at least two shout outs. This classic tale doubles as a poem, perfect for igniting big conversations about selflessness versus selfishness, feelings, phases of life, and what makes us feel content.
The Tree that Time Built: A Celebration of Nature, Science, and Imagination (A Poetry Speaks Experience) by Linda Winston, Mary Ann Hoberman, and Barbara Fortin.
This anthology of nature inspired poems is sure to inspire and engage your child with the outdoors in unexpected ways.
Winter Bees & Other Poems of the Cold by Joyce Sidman
Take a poetic romp through the snow as you discover how creatures cope with the cold. This sweet celebration of nature is sure to inspire future environmentalists.
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Visit our Complete Resource List.
Or check out these projects to heal the earth.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
16 Top Valentine's Day Picture Books: Celebrate Love with Children's Favorites
18 Winter Holiday Picture Books for Kids to Celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan & Beyond
Cozy up with compassionate holiday tales.
The spirit of wonder, hope, and generosity in each story below helps us see clearly that people everywhere have so much in common, even amid our beautiful differences. Find stories in the list below that celebrate winter holidays including Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Ramadan, Diwali, Winter Solstice, Saint Lucia Day, and more.
Ready for more? See our discussion guide to accompany these winter holiday picture books.
Featured Title
Lailah’s Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story by Reem Faruqi
Lailah is finally old enough to fast for Ramadan. But as a new girl in a new country, she worries about how her classmates will react.
More DGT Favorites
A Hanukkah with Mazel Joel Edward Stein
Misha, a lonely artist, befriends a cat, Mazel. He works to make Hanukkah special for his new friend. Though they have very little, young readers will learn that holidays can be very special with the simplest gifts and a little creativity. Ages 3 to 8.
A World of Christmas Cookies: Follow Santa's Tasty Trip Around the World by M. E. Furman
Featuring delicious recipes from around the world, this creative story will add flavor and global appreciation to your holiday. Ages 4 to 8.
A Winter Candle by Jeron Ashford
Residents of one apartment building are each celebrating family traditions during the holidays. One by one, each family discovers they are missing an important part of their holiday - a candle. This lovely story follows the candle as it is passed from family to family, lighting a gatherings for the Sabbath, Saint Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, and others. Ages 5 to 11.
December by Eve Bunting
Simon and his mom don’t have much–the cardboard house they built for themselves, a tiny Christmas tree, and a picture of an angel on the wall. On Christmas Eve they take in a frail stranger who needs a place to keep warm, and the next morning Simon wakes early to find that the woman has vanished. Instead, he sees the angel from the picture, with her wings fanned out over their cardboard house. Could she be real?
The Gift Inside the Box by Adam Grant and Allison Sweet Grant
Empathy expert Adam Grant has teamed up with his wife Allison Sweet Grant to bring us this engaging and heart-warming story featuring a mysterious gift in search of someone to open him. Intentionally designed to ignite conversations about greed, selfishness, and giving, this modern-day fable is remarkably fun and engaging too.
Oskar and the Eight Blessings by Rich Simon and Tanya Simon
Set in 1938, Oskar is a Jewish immigrant new to the U.S. Follow him as he walks through New York City on the seventh day of Hanukkah and Christmas Eve. Along the way, he takes in New York landmarks and experiences small acts of kindness from many strangers, making him feel welcome in his new home. Ages 4 to 8.
The Gift of Nothing by Patrick McDonnell
What do you get for the friend who has everything? Nothing, of course! Patrick McDonnell’s The Gift of Nothing is the light-hearted tale of one dog’s quest to find just the right nothing to give his special friend. Ages 4 to 8.
The Quiltmaker's Gift by Jeff Brumbeau
A talented seamstress makes beautiful quilts for the poor and the homeless. When the king who has everything decides he must have one of her creations, she tells him he must give away everything; then she will give him a quilt. In the process of shedding his many possessions, the king finds true happiness. No summary can do justice to the mesmerizing, fairy-tale quality of this beautifully illustrated tale. Ages 4 to 8.
The Trees of the Dancing Goats by Patricia Polacco
This story featuring the joy of giving is told with the incomparable sensitivity and bewitching style of all Polacco's books. Young Trisha and her family are preparing for Hanukkah when they learn that their Christian neighbors are coping with a scarlet fever epidemic. Unable to celebrate while their neighbors are suffering, Trisha’s family reaches out to help. Ages 5 to 10.
Great Joy by Kate DiCamillo
This is one of the sweetest, most elegant books of the season. Great Joy is the tale of an organ grinder, his monkey, and the little girl who worries over whether he has a place to go in the storm. Ages 4 to 8.
Gus and Grandpa and the Christmas Cookies by Claudia Mills
When Gus goes to Grandpa’s house to bake Christmas cookies, they discover that they don’t have any sprinkles. On the way to the store, they pass a Santa collecting money for the poor. Gus contributes two quarters and is rewarded with a “God bless you.” Returning home, Gus and Grandpa are visited by three neighbors, each bringing two dozen cookies. What are they to do with so many cookies? Gus knows! Ages 5 to 8.
Hanukkah Haiku by Harriet Ziefert
Celebrate the eight nights of Hanukkah with a haiku for each night and a clever, beautifully design book that is lovely to read again and again. Ages 4 to 8.
Lights for Gita by Rachna Gilmore
Young Gita is excited to celebrate her favorite holiday for the first time after her family immigrated from India: Diwali, a festival of lights. But when Gita's plans fall apart, Gita gets very homesick. With the help of family and friends, Gita discovers that she carries the light of Diwali inside her wherever she goes. Ages 5 to 8.
Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story by Angela Shelf Medearis
This charming fable introduces readers to the seven principles of Kwanzaa and life lessons everyone can appreciate.
The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice by Wendy Pfeffer
Learn about the way various cultures throughout history have observed the Winter Solstice.
Walk this World at Christmastime by Big Picture Press & Debbie Powell
This beautifully illustrated lift-the-flap book takes children on a tour of Christmastime around the world, as well as other winter holidays that bring families together.
The Wish Tree by Kyo Maclear
This mesmerizing story beautifully captures the magical spirit of the holiday season. Its soothing, serene pace is a nice break from the frenzy of year-end traditions. And its inclusive, expansive message of hope and inspiration make this book perfect for everyone on your list.
Conversation Starters
What did the holidays look like in your grandparents' homes when they were children?
What did the holidays look like in your parents' homes when they were children?
How did some of the favorite holiday traditions get started in your family?
What would your holiday be like if you didn’t receive any presents?
What would it feel like to receive holiday gifts from a stranger instead of family and friends?
What kind gestures have others done for you over the holidays?
What are some ways you can show others you care during the holidays? Or what are some ways you have shared comfort and cheer with others?
Snag our free printable count down to the New Year for holiday kindness ideas!
Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.
Or check out these ideas for sharing kindness this holiday season.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
12 Favorite Thanksgiving Picture Books & Read Alouds for Kids
22 Favorite Picture Books About Peace
23 Favorite Children's Books About Gratitude to Inspire Everyday Thankfulness
Give thanks every day with this growing collection. Research shows that people who regularly express gratitude are happier and healthier than their counterparts, regardless of measurable wealth. Plus, regularly practicing gratitude shines a spotlight on the abundance of gifts in our lives, gifts we might otherwise overlook.
23 Best Halloween Picture Books for Kids
Add heart to this spooky holiday! What child doesn't love the imaginative aspects of Halloween, a celebration of candy and costumes? Of course, this holiday lends itself to some difficult conversations, when young children observe costumes, advertisements, and television previews that may be beyond their emotional readiness. Some are just downright yucky. These books will help your child navigate this tricky season.
Picture Books to Inspire Kindness Through Music
Chapter Books Featuring Immigrant and Refugee Experiences
Picture Books for Bibliophiles
Share your love of reading with a child in your life.
Bibliophiles - or book worms - of every age will be delighted by these creative stories. They explore reading as a superpower, reading as magic, and reading as a grand adventure. Then use our discussion questions to make the most of story time.
Conversation Starters
What is a bibliophile?
What do you love most about reading?
Can you name a favorite book or two? A favorite character or two?
How could you persuade someone who doesn't love to read to try your favorite book?
Do you like to visit the public library?
Do you think it's important to make books available, for free, to everyone? Why or why not
Featured Titles
A Velocity of Being: Letters to a Young Reader edited by Maria Papova and Claudia Bedrick
Perfect for book lovers ages 10 and up, this collection of deliciously inspiring essays features writers from Neil Gaiman and Jane Goodall to Rebecca Solnit and Regina Specktor.
For everyone who has ever fallen in love with a book, this is a gift-worthy treasure.
Lyric McKerrigan, Secret Librarian by Jacob Sager Weinstein and Vera Brosgol
This super fun comic-book-style adventure is sure to captivate every reader. This secret librarian is on a pun-filled mission to stop evil Dr. Glockenspiel from destroying the world’s books.
More DGT Favorites
The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth, and Harlem’s Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
The story of the origins of Harlem’s National Memorial African Bookstore, a cultural epicenter for activists and black culture, is sure to captivate your young book lover.
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce
This whimsical, reality-bending book is full of food for thought. It even inspired an Academy Award-winning short film.
I Will Not Read This Book by Cece Meng
By the end of this hilarious read-aloud, even reluctant readers — like the boy in the story — will be happy snuggle in for story time.
Aunt Chip and the Great Triple Creek Dam Affair by Patricia Polacco
If you are looking for an adventure story celebrating books and reading, this is the one. Master story-teller Palocco introduces us to Aunt Chip and her quest to unplug a generation of tech-crazy kids in a tale that will stick with readers long after the last page.
A Quiet Place by Douglas Wood
This beautiful book empowers children to discover the quiet places that feed their spirits, including the many adventures that await between the covers of a good book.
Library Lil by Suzanne Williams
Can a librarian take on a motorcycle gang to protect her precious books? Find out in this exceptional tall tale!
The Right Word: Roget and His Thesaurus by Jen Bryant and Melissa Sweet
For every shy child who delights in books and new words, the true story Peter Mark Roget and the world’s first thesaurus is sure to be inspiring.
Back to Read Together for more book lists...
Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.
Or check out these projects and book lists to inspire your family to share kindness with your own creativity.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
13 Chapter Books on Mindfulness and Gratitude: Essential Reads for Kids
A Growing List of Chapter Books To Teach Active Citizenship
Picture Books about Immigrants and Refugees
Open your hearts to the refugee experience.
With so many news stories about immigration making headlines, your children may be asking questions about the families and children facing these difficult situations.
It can be hard to know what to say.
While it's important to protect our kids from traumatizing images and information, we can approach our children’s questions in a way that encourages empathy for those who are struggling. These children's books will help you build understanding and encourage compassion.
Don’t forget to check out our collection of chapter books about immigrants and refugees for even more stories to broaden your perspective.
Download this incredible (and free) tool to talk about immigration, including books, videos, and conversation starters for elementary, middle school, and high school kids.
Conversation Starters
What would it be like to be forced to leave home suddenly? What would you pack if you had just a little time? What would you miss?
What could help make a refugee feel more comfortable and less scared in their new home?
With older children, explain what "refugee" means -- someone who is forced to flee their home because they fear they will lose their lives or freedom if they stay.
Together, imagine arriving in a new country without knowing the language or customs. Help your child "walk in the shoes" of a refugee child by asking:
What would it be like to have to leave home suddenly?
What would you pack if you had just a little time? (Many refugees leave their homes with little warning and cannot even bring basic necessities.)
What would you miss?
How would you feel?
What could help make a refugee feel more comfortable and less scared in their new home?
Always reassure children that they are safe, and focus on positive ways to make a difference rather than on despair.
Featured Title
Light for All by Margarita Engle
Simple but powerful text and illustrations introduce children to the concept of immigration and the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty. Ages 5 - 10.
More DGT Favorites
A Different Pond by Bao Phi
This beautiful story illuminates the struggle working class immigrants face while trying to make ends meet for their families. The fishing trip at the heart of this story is described in beautiful detail, both the universally recognizable moments of childhood, like grimacing at the slimy feeling of your freshly caught fish, and the unique worries and triumphs of this father and his son.
Brothers in Hope: The Story of the Lost Boys of Sudan by Mary Williams
Based on true events, this touching tale follows orphaned boys walking from their war-ravaged village to a refugee camp. Ages 7 and up.
Calling the Water Drum by LaTisha Redding
After losing his parents in a tragic attempt to reach the United States from Haiti, Henri has retreated within himself. His uncle and a neighbor help Henri connect with his past by connecting to the beat of his own drum.
The Color of Home by Mary Hoffman
The story of a recent immigrant from Somalia and his first day in an American school. The amazing watercolors help tell of this little boy's fears and hopes. Ages 4 and up.
Dia’s Story Cloth: The Hmong People’s Journey of Freedom by Dia Cha
The story cloth, Southeast Asian folk art, provides a beautiful backdrop for this sweet story. Ages 6 to 11.
Dreamers by Yuyi Morales
The author shares her own immigration story in this beautifully illustrated book. Gently told and lyrical, this story focuses on the intangible things immigrants carry with them, hope and strength, resilience, and powerful stories.
Four Feet, Two Sandals by Karen Lynn Williams
Two girls in a Pakistani refugee camp decide to share a pair of sandals given to them by a relief worker. A simple story of friendship. Ages 6 and up.
Global Conflict (Children in Our World) by Louise Spilsbury ad Hanane Kai
When international conflicts saturate the headlines, children may have complicated questions. This well-crafted book is designed to help you answer questions about global conflict in a straightforward way.
Hear My Voice: The Testimonies of Children Detained at the Southern Border of the United States compiled by Warren Binford for Project Amplify
This is not an easy book to read, but it is richly drawn by many contributing illustrators and gives voice to real children living through an experience that we all should be working to change. Reflection tools at the back of the book will help readers ages 8 and up and their families reflect and take action.
How many days to America? A Thanksgiving Story by Eve Bunting
A family is forced to flee their Caribbean island and set sail for America in a small fishing boat. They arrive on Thanksgiving Day, having experienced fears and hardships very similar to those faced by those who celebrated the first Thanksgiving. This is a very moving story sure to open a conversation about compassion and courage. Ages 4 to 7.
Joseph's Big Ride by Terry Farish
Follow Joseph, a new refugee, on his mission to learn to ride a bike. Ages 4 to 7.
The Journey by Francesca Sanna
Explore the impossible decisions people must make when leaving their homes behind. Ages 3-7.
Leaving Vietnam: The Journey of Tuan Ngo, a Boat Boy by Sarah S. Kilborne
Join Tuan Ngo and his father as they escape Vietnam by boat, spend time in a refugee camp and ultimately arrive in the United States. Ages 6 and up.
Mama’s Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation by Edwidge Danticat
Mama records bedtime stories for Saya to help her cope while Mama is in an immigration detention center. Ages 5 and up.
Me + Tree by Alexandria Giardina and Anna & Elna Balbusso
A lonely girl finds comfort in a stump. She knows it has a story to tell and shares her story of being forced from her home. An inspiring story of hope and connection with nature.
My Diary from Here to There by Amada Irma Perez
Join author Amada Irma Perez as she journals about her experience leaving Mexico with her family to live in the United States. Children will be able to put themselves in her shoes as she wonders what awaits her.
My Name is Sangoel by Karen Williams
Join this Sudanese refugee on as he attempts to find belonging in the new, noisy world of the United States. Ages 6 to 10.
My Two Border Towns by David Bowles Illustrated by Erika Meza
This story follows a boy and his father, living at the Southern U.S. border who travel across the border to a town that he feels mirrors his hometown. The dad and son’s kindness awakens an appreciation for the humanity of those waiting at the border.
Oskar and the Eight Blessings by Tanya Simon
Set in 1938, Oskar is a Jewish immigrant new to the U.S. Follow him as he walks through New York City experiencing small acts of kindness, making him feel welcome in his new home. Ages 4 to 8.
Stepping stones. A Refugee Family's Journey by Margaret Ruurs
This story about the Syrian refugee crisis began when Rurrs, a Canadian children's author, encountered the breathtaking stone art of Syrian artist Nizar Bdr. This dual language book is warm and beautiful in spite of its harsh subject matter. Ages 4 and up.
Teacup by Rebecca Young
The beautiful allegory is sure to become a family treasure, and it will speak to the difficult journeys that we all must face. Ages 4 to 8.
The Journey That Saved Curious George: The True Wartime Escape of Margret and H.A. Rey by Louise Borden
This remarkable story is perfect for literature buffs of any age. Ages 7 and up.
The Lotus Seed by Sherry Garland
A simple but eloquent story of a young Vietnamese girl who brings a lotus seed with her to America as a way to remember her homeland. Ages 6-9.
Watercress by Andrea Wang
This beautiful new book will encourage conversation about the long-term impacts hunger and poverty can leave on a family. Kids will recognize the narrator’s embarrassment when her parents stop along the road and insist the whole family help gather watercress. When she discovers the significance of watercress to her parents’ personal stories and their Chinese heritage, readers will join her in wanting to build new memories out of the old.
We at Doing Good Together are committed to expanding this list over time, and look forward to hearing your recommendations in the comments.
Back to Read Together for more book lists...
Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.
Or check out these projects to inspire your next act of kindness.
Books for Your Family Philosophy Club
Picture Books about Global Poverty
Chapter Books for Animal Lovers
Discuss Every Story with Printable Conversation Cards
Turn story time into a family book club!
Making time and space to read together is the simplest, most effective way to nurture compassion.
A good book invites you to see the world from another point of view, which is key to strengthening your whole family's empathy muscles. You can deepen this impact by asking a question or two after each story. If you follow your children's lead and encourage them to think deeply - at every age - about the world in your story, a beautiful thing will happen.
You'll find almost any book will start a big-hearted, empathy-building conversation.
Some days, this may lead to a super-silly “what if” conversation. Other days, you may find yourself answering big questions about hunger or hurt or loneliness.
Encourage this reflection. Follow their lead. And enjoy these thoughtful, mindful family moments.
“Make it a habit to ask a question or two after every story time. If you follow your child’s lead and encourage them to think deeply - at every age - about the world in your story, a beautiful thing will happen. You’ll find almost any book will start a big-hearted, empathy-building conversation. ”
Conversation Starters
Discover creative ways to welcome reading into your family’s everyday life here.
Did you enjoy this book? Why or why not?
What challenge was the main character facing? How would you have reacted in that situation?
How did the main character(s) feel at key moments throughout the book? How would you have felt at each of those moments?
What do you think about how the main character faced the main conflict? What else could he or she have done?
Imagine how this story might be different if it were set in a different culture or time?
Do you know anyone in real life who reminds you of a character in this story? Who and in what way?
What would you change about this story if you were the author? Let's take a moment to imagine that story.
Does this story remind you of any other stories you've read? How are they the same? Which story did you enjoy more? Why?
Browse Doing Good Together's most recent favorites.
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Browse Doing Good Together's picture book collections.
Browse Doing Good Together's chapter book collections.
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Go back to Read Together for more book lists.
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with one of these projects.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
Chapter Books about Death & Grief
Understand grief through great stories.
Stepping into a fictional world can have profound effects on our ability to understand and articulate our own emotions, fears, and hopes. The titles below will help your family approach the issue of death and grief with greater understanding.
You may also want to explore our collection of Picture Books about Death & Grief. This growing list is full of compassionate books that speak to people of every age.
Wondering how to approach a conversation about death and grief?
Visit the Child Development Institute's thoughtful article "How to Talk to Kids About Death." Along with a brief assessment of the developmental stages of understanding death, the guidelines in this article are helpful for anyone approaching the topic from a theoretical perspective.
If you are reaching out to a child who has experienced the loss of a loved one, look for insight at the Dougy Center: The National Center for Grieving Children and Families, especially in this article: "How to Help a Grieving Child."
As always, while reading any of the books below, make time to ask:
How do you think the character is feeling (in various parts of the book)?
How do you think you would feel if you were in that situation?
What did you think of this book?
What questions do you have?
More titles coming soon!
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
This Newbery Medal-winning classic is filled with imagination as well as the untimely loss of a best friend. This exceptional story has guided readers through this painful experience of loss, grief, and acceptance for generations.
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White
Here's another long-standing classic. Charlotte teaches Wilber, and us, so much about friendship, hope, persistence, and ultimately, life and death.
The Five Lives of My Cat Zook by Joanne Rocklin
This deceptively light-heated book features Oona, her brother Fred, and their ailing cat Zook. Oona and Fred are grieving for their father, who passed away a year before the action opens in the story. Laugh and cry with them on their journey to come to terms with the tumultuous cycles of life and death.
Hachiko Waits by Leslea Newman
The sweet, sad, yet hopeful story of a loyal dog and the many lessons in loyalty, friendship, hope, patience, and responsibility that he teaches the people around him.
Maybe a Fox by Kathi Appelt and Aliso McGhee
This fantastical, epic story will captivate your whole family. The story is told in alternate voices, one of Jules who is coming to terms with the loss of her sister, the other the shadow fox in the shadow land who is fast, just like Jules' sister.
Missing May by Cynthia Rylant
Rylant's book is a must-read gem, beautifully and painfully exploring the pain of missing someone. You'll join Summer and her Uncle Ob shortly after Aunt May has died. When Ob becomes obsessed with the idea that May's spirit is coming back to him, Summer and her oddball classmate Cletus go on a spiritual mission that changes all of them.
Monster Calls by Patrick Ness
Conor tries to cope with his mother's approaching death in this deeply emotional story. Deeply imaginative, readers will enjoy the stories within stories in compelling, page-turner of a book.
The Thing about Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin
Join eleven-year-old Suzy in the uncomfortable awkwardness of middle school as she tries to understand why her estranged best-friend died last summer. The ethereal world of jellyfish will captivate readers of every age.
Please share your recommendations in the comments below.
We realize the topics of death and grief are deeply entwined with personal spiritual beliefs, so feel free to share whatever speaks to you and your family. There are likely many others just like you who will be grateful for an additional resource.
Back to Read Together for more book lists...
Haven't found what you're looking for?
Visit our Complete Resource List.
Or check out these projects to provide comfort.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
Picture Books for a Community Scientist
Inspire curiosity, global connection, and your next act of community science
New technologies have fueled a global push for citizen or community science, connecting curious individuals with researchers looking to gather and analyze vast quantities of new data. Now your family can spend meaningful time together supporting this research!
Before you check out our project instructions and Become Community Scientists, explore this fantastic collection of science-centric books to spark wonder.
Doing Good Together is transitioning to the more inclusive term “community science” rather than citizen science, simply because citzenship is not a prerequisite for participating and can be frighting to some science lovers.
Conversation Starters
What is community or citizen science?
Why do you think it might be a good idea to encourage everyday citizens to participate in science?
What could be a challenge or problem with having the public contribute to scientific research?
How do you think it might feel to participate in a global scientific endeavor?
What research would you do if you could?
What did you learn in this book? What surprised you?
What new questions do you have or what are you curious about as a result of reading this book?
Featured DGT Favorite
Moonlight Crab Count by Dr. Neeta Bathala and Jennifer Keats Curtis
Join Leena, her mother, and her dog Bobie on a journey to count horseshoe crabs. Discover the simple truth that knowledge is a treasure we all should hunt for, kids and families as well as scientists!
Actual Size by Steve Jenkens
This wonderfully-illustrated book brings the wild world into vivid perspective.
Animalium: Welcome to the Museum by Jenny Broom
Take a trip to the world's most accessible natural museum and spend hours learning about the natural world with this incredible book.
A Passion for Elephants: The Real Life Adventure of Field Scientist Cynthia Moss by Toni Buzzeo
Set the stage for your own observations of nature with this excellent biography.
Bat Count: A Citizen Science Story by Anna Forrester
Spend exciting summer evenings with Jojo and her family, counting bats to help scientists studying white-nose syndrome.
Big Questions from Little People: And Simple Answers from Great Minds by Gemma Elwin Harris
Scientists, philosophers, and specialists weigh in on the weighty, perplexing questions curious grade-school kids are famous for.
Citizen Science: Be a Part of Scientific Discovery from Your Own Backyard by Loree Griffin Burns
Get started with simple, flagship community science projects through Audubon, FrogWatch USA, and more.
Follow the Moon Home: A Tale of One Idea, Twenty Kids, and A Hundred Sea Turtles by Phillipe Cousteau
Discover the incredible difference curious kids can make in the world. A little courage and perseverance and make big-hearted kids unstoppable!
If: A Mind-Bending New Way of Looking at Big Ideas and Numbers by David Smith
Grapple with big, hard-to-imagine ideas by scaling them down with clever metaphors brought to you by the same author who created If the World Were a Village.
Monarch Butterflies: Explore the Life Journey of One of the Winged Wonders of the World by Ann Hobie
This beautiful introduction to all things monarch is sure to inspire your family to take action. It gently illustrates how human behavior has harmed monarchs and then offers substantive ways kids can help make a positive difference. Also check out Monarch Joint Venture’s collection of community science projects.
Professor Astro Cat's Frontiers of Space by Dominic Walliman
Enjoy lessons on the cosmos from the world's smartest cat!
Ruby’s Birds by Mya Thompson
Join Ruby in discovering the fun of birdwatching, a pastime you can pursue whatever you are! Learn Ruby’s tips for taking nature walks, find out how to spot birds in your neck of the woods, and connect with Celebrate Urban Birds, a community-science project at the Cornell Lab.
Outdoor Science Lab for Kids: 52 Family-Friendly Experiments for the Yard, Garden, Playground, and Park by Liz Lee Heinecke
Part of the incredible Lab Series, this edition will inspire your whole family to bring science to your time outside.
What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada
This beautiful book is perfect for people of all ages, all aspirations, and all phases of creative endeavor. How do you nurture an idea? You'll see!
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