Losing a parent can be a devastating experience for any child, and it can be difficult to find ways to cope with the grief and pain. However, literature has the power to help readers process their emotions and connect with characters who are going through similar struggles. In this blog post, we will explore several books that explore the theme of children trying to get over the death of a parent. These books provide a unique perspective on grief, loss, and healing, and can offer comfort and solace to readers who may be dealing with similar experiences.
- “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson
“Bridge to Terabithia” is a classic children’s novel that tells the story of Jesse Aarons, a young boy who becomes friends with a new girl in school, Leslie Burke. Together, they create a magical world in the woods called Terabithia, where they can escape their problems and be themselves. However, tragedy strikes when Leslie dies in a freak accident, leaving Jesse to cope with his grief and find a way to keep her memory alive.
The theme of grief is central to the novel, and it is explored in a realistic and poignant way. Jesse’s emotions are raw and intense, and his journey to healing is a long and difficult one. Through his friendship with Leslie, he learns how to be himself and find the strength to move forward, even in the face of tragedy. “Bridge to Terabithia” is a powerful novel that shows how even in the darkest of times, there is hope and light to be found.
- “A Monster Calls” by Patrick Ness
“A Monster Calls” is a heart-wrenching story that explores the themes of loss, grief, and acceptance. The novel tells the story of Conor, a young boy who is dealing with his mother’s terminal illness. He is visited by a monster who tells him three stories, and in return, Conor must share his own story with the monster. Through these tales, Conor learns how to face his fears and come to terms with his mother’s death.
The novel is a powerful exploration of grief and the different ways it can manifest. Conor’s emotions are complex and raw, and his journey to healing is not an easy one. The monster serves as a symbol of his grief and a source of comfort and guidance as he navigates the difficult terrain of loss. “A Monster Calls” is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a way to find hope and light.
- “The Sky is Everywhere” by Jandy Nelson
“The Sky is Everywhere” is a poignant novel that explores the themes of grief, love, and family. The novel tells the story of Lennie, a teenage girl who is grieving the loss of her sister Bailey. She feels lost and unsure of how to move on, but finds comfort in writing poetry and connecting with two different boys who are also dealing with their own struggles.
The novel is a beautiful exploration of the different ways grief can affect people, and how love and connection can help us heal. Lennie’s journey is a difficult one, but through her relationships with others, she is able to find a way to move forward and honor her sister’s memory. “The Sky is Everywhere” is a powerful reminder of the importance of family, love, and connection in the face of loss.
Losing a parent is one of the most devastating experiences anyone can go through, and it can take a long time to recover. Reading books that explore this theme can provide comfort and solace for those who are struggling with the grief and loss of a parent. These books can offer a sense of validation and understanding that the reader is not alone in their struggles. They can also provide an opportunity for the reader to process their emotions and reflect on their own experiences of grief. Whether the reader is a child or an adult, reading about characters who are going through a similar experience can help them feel less alone and more connected to others who have faced similar challenges.
Reading books can be a powerful tool for healing and recovery in the wake of the loss of a parent. If you enjoy reading books that examine the themes discussed above, consider the short story Collector of Space Junk and Rebellious Dreams (linked below).
