Books can be a wonderful tool to use with children who have experienced difficult times such as trauma or loss. Reading, being read to, and talking with adults they love can help them understand and cope with their feelings in an age-appropriate way. To support all of you and your little learners as you navigate these difficult discussions we’ve curated a collection of our favorite books with soundscapes that address the big feelings that come along with tragic events.
All of the ebooks included in this collection are available for everyone to read aloud in the hopes that they may bring you and your little ones comfort.
The Rabbit Listened
Cori doerrfeld
This simple picture book is about empathy and kindness and helps little learners understand how we can support one another during times of sadness and fear by gently, carefully listening.
Love, Hugs, and Hope When Scary Things Happen
Christy Monson
Love, Hugs, and Hope validates scary feelings and focuses on how children can cope with significant and traumatic events in their lives.
Be Kind
Pat Zietlow Miller
This moving and thoughtful story explores what a child can do to be kind.
Love You Forever
Robert Munsch
This classic story celebrates the power of love between parents and children.
Ibex Feels Deeply
Callie Christensen and Kelly Oriard
Ibex Feels Deeply promotes emotional courage by sharing how Ibex learns to access resilience and do the right thing even when it is hard to do.
Tomorrow I'll Be Kind
Jessica Hirsche
This uplifting and positive book encourages kids to be grateful, helpful, and kind.
The Feels
Callie Christensen and Kelly Oriard
The Feels helps children learn about their emotions as they join Yeti on a journey of self-discovery as she meets her feelings and learns how to take care of each one.
Alpaca Holds Your Worries
Callie Christensen and Kelly Oriard
Alpaca Holds Your Worries supports stress relief and anxiety management. Readers are encouraged to share their feelings and accept help when worries are too big to hold alone.
Guess How Much I Love You
Sam McBratney
Guess How Much I Love You shares a sweet and simple tale about the love a parent and child have for each other.
In My Heart A Book of Feelings
Jo Witek
In My Heart explores a full range of emotions, describing how they feel physically and empowers readers to practice articulating and identifying their own emotions.
Sprite Offers Comfort
Callie Christensen and Kelly Oriard
Sprite Offers Comfort provides concrete tools that help children understand and process grief and loss. Readers learn that all emotions are welcome and memories of loved ones will remain in their hearts.
Download the Novel Effect app for free to bring these books to life with interactive soundscapes of music, sound effects, and character voices that respond to your voice as you read aloud.