Books for Sad Days
In the mood to hug your pillow and shed some tears? Then keep some tissues handy and indulge in these touching tales.
Cozy up with a touching tale.
The Big Wave by Pearl S. Buck
After a massive tidal wave destroys his village and takes the lives of his family, a young Japanese boy learns to find the strength to move on.
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
In this Newbery medal winner, a tragic accident occurs in a secret world in the woods and changes the lives of two friends forever. Learn more.
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White
A lovable pig discovers the difficulties of letting go when a cherished friend passes away. Learn more.
A Day No Pigs Would Die by Robert Newton Peck
A 12 year old discovers what it means to be a man when he is forced to choose between the welfare of his family and his best friend.
The Giver by Lois Lowry
A young boy makes some risky decisions when he flees from a society he no longer understands. Learn more.
Goodnight Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian
In this uplifting story, an ill-treated child learns to let go of a terrible past when he is adopted by a kind old man in the English countryside.
Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson
Tired of living in the shadow of her twin sister, Sarah Louise Bradshaw learns to value her own special qualities. Learn more.
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
This sorrowful and compassionate story follows the complicated but touching bond between two ranch hands.
Old Yeller by Fred Gipson
Fall in love with a boisterous, loyal dog whose heroism lands him in a life-threatening situation.
On My Honor by Marion Dane Bauer
Tragedy strikes when two friends choose to swim in treacherous waters against their parents' wishes.
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr and Ronald Himler
In this touching tale, a Japanese girl races against time to make the paper cranes that legend says will cure her of leukemia.
The Summer of Riley by Eve Bunting
A young boy learns that doing the right thing is never easy, especially when you have to say goodbye to your much-loved canine companion. Learn more.
A Summer to Die by Lois Lowry
A moving story that follows 13-year-old Meg as she struggles with the death of a sister she has always envied.
Sun and Spoon by Kevin Henkes
Spoon searches high and low for something special to remember his late grandmother by in this uplifting tale of loss and renewal.
A Taste of Blackberries by Doris Buchanan Smith
In this poignant tale, a young boy must deal with the consequences of a prank that goes terribly wrong. Learn more.
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
A Native American legend quiets a young boy's pain when he loses his much loved coonhounds. Learn more.
