Grief Is an Elephant

Ages 3 to 5

An imaginative and heartfelt book that reminds us that there is no loss without love.

When Grief first arrives, it is like an elephant—so big that there is hardly room for anything else. But over time, Grief can become smaller and smaller—first a deer, then a fox, a mouse, and finally a flickering firefly in the darkness leading us down a path of loving remembrance.

This lyrical work is an empathetic and comforting balm for anyone who is experiencing grief, be it grieving the loss of a loved one or losses in the world around us.

REASSURING FEELINGS BOOK: Children can often feel confused by their emotions. The gentle voice and soft illustrations in this book help to make these emotions feel less frightening, and the hopeful ending provides a reassuring message that grief will transform over time.

TIMELESS REFLECTION ON GRIEF: The perennial themes of grief and sadness, as well as the graceful art style, make this perfect for anyone who is dealing with feelings of loss, whether that involves the loss of a loved one, grieving a pet, managing emotions during or after moving or being displaced, or responding to losses in a community or the larger world.

ACCESSIBLE: The open-ended narrative covers grief in a way that is not directly related to death. Poignant and honest, this book is a resource for parents and caregivers looking for ways to talk to children about grief and other kinds of sadness.

BEAUTIFUL PICTURE BOOK FOR ALL AGES: The exceptional text and art are a soothing treat to read. Like the best social-emotional books for kids, this lovely grief book holds as much meaning for kids navigating new feelings as for adults handling their own or their family's emotions around loss.

Perfect for:Parents and grandparents seeking grief books for kidsTeachers and librarians seeking children's books about emotions to recommend or read aloudGrief resource for social workers and other caregiversAnyone looking for books about griefA thoughtful gift for a grieving child, loved one, or friend

About the Author

Tamara Ellis Smith earned her MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She lives in Richmond, Vermont, with her family.

Nancy Whitesides is an author and self-taught illustrator born and raised in the Philippines. She now lives in California.