Some things are hard to talk about. But life happens and along with it, there is the passing of loved ones. When that time comes, Cry Heart, But Never Break by Glenn Ringtved (illustrated by Charlotte Pardi), might help. Death comes calling on Grandmother one evening. Her four grandchildren try to trick Death by keeping him awake until dawn, for everyone knows Death only does his work at night. As the night passes, Death tells the children why he comes through a story of the brothers Grief and Sorrow and the sisters Joy and Delight who, cannot live without the other. It is the same with life and death, Death explains, for each brings meaning to each other. In this story, Death is not a cold heartless reaper, but a gentle soul who loves life and people.

Recommended for grief counseling 

Ages 6 and up

Du Iz Tak

By Carson Ellis

In Spring, anything is possible. A seedling sprouts, amazing everyone. The insects love it, making it their personal playground with a fort and even a castle. Every moment of the plant’s life is celebrated and savored, and when its flowers, happiness is unbounded. Fall comes, the insects disappear and the flower wilts. Du Iz Tak is a gentle reminder of the verse “To everything there is a season.”

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend

By Dan Santat

Did you know that imaginary friends come an island far away and that each imaginary friend must be wished for before appearing? Beekle is the unlucky imaginary friend who never hears from his child, so he takes matters into his own hands. When he finds him, he discovers his friend is a she, not a he. No matter, they are perfect for each other Both are shy, like to draw and tell funny jokes. Together, they can do the unimaginable!

PS This is a Caldecott winner. I’m not surprised.