Tough topics can be difficult to talk about with young children. These books, recommended by the Ottawa Public Library, offer a helping hand in a variety of situations to engage and spark reflective conversation.

Grief

All From a Walnut by Ammi-Joan Paquette

Following a family tradition, Grandpa gives Emilia a walnut and together they plant and care for it, but as her little nut grows into a tree, Grandpa begins to slow down until one sad day Emilia has to say goodbye.

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

When Liza and Jeremy run to their mother during a scary storm, she comforts them by telling them about the invisible string, which connects people who love each other no matter where they are and means that they are never alone.

Maybe Tomorrow? By Charlotte Agell

Elba carries the black block of grief and sadness wherever she goes--until Norris comes along and helps her to let go of the block and enjoy life again.

Dementia

Hundred Years of Happiness by Thanhha Lai

An's grandmother Bà sometimes gets trapped in her cloudy memories. An and her grandfather Ông come up with a plan to bring her back to a happy moment: growing gấc fruits so they can make xôi gấc, Bà's favorite dish from her wedding in Vietnam many years ago.

Never Forget Eleanor by Jason June

Elijah loves spending time with his grandma Eleanor. She knows all the best words to answer tricky crossword puzzles and to tell the most beautiful stories to her family and friends. Everyone calls her 'Never Forget Eleanor' because she remembers every word she reads and person she meets. Lately though, Elijah has started to notice grandma Eleanor forgetting little things.

The Day Abuelo Got Lost by Diane De Anda

Luis and his grandfather enjoy spending every afternoon together but when Abuelo becomes forgetful, Luis must find new ways to share time and show love.

Depression

A Blue Kind of Day by Rachel Tomlinson

Coen is having a sniffling, sighing, sobbing kind of day. His family thinks they know how to cheer him up. His dad wants to go outside and play, Mom tells her funniest joke, and his little sister shares her favorite teddy. Nothing helps. But one by one, they get quiet and begin to listen. After some time, space, and reassurance, Coen is able to show them what he needs.

Balloons for Papa by Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia

Arthur's father rushes him through the park every morning, through gray and rainy weather. Arthur just wants a bright balloon from the park's vendor, but Papa always says no. One morning, the balloons magically appear at their doorstep, and Arthur figures out the perfect way to bring the sunshine out--and Papa's smile back--even if only for a few moments.

Divorce and Separation

Here and There by Tamara Ellis Smith

After Ivan's parents separate, he has trouble finding joy at either of their homes until he discovers that the birds and music that he loves may be found in both places.

Mila has Two Beds by Judith Koppens

Mila has two homes: some days she lives with Mommy and some days she lives with Daddy. Today she is going to her Mommy's house. Everything is a little different at Mommy's than at Daddy's. But Mommy and Daddy both think Mila is the sweetest girl in the whole world.

Resilience

Sometimes All I Need is Me by Juliana Perdomo

A young girl finds comfort and confidence within as she makes the best of any situation, in a text that highlights the themes of resiliency, mindfulness, and self-care.

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld

When Taylor's block castle is destroyed, all the animals think they know just what to do, but only the rabbit quietly listens to how Taylor is feeling.