Books on explaining death to young children

 We had a rough week last week. Family friends of ours lost their young daughter at the age of 14 month. The young mother said that her youngest son who is about 3  years old didn't have a clue what was going on.

So I was trying to remember what books on death of a family member or pet would be good for that age group.

1. I miss you/ Pat Thomas. This book explains that  death is natural and that feeling  grief and loss are feelings that  you may have. As a counselor and psychotherapist, Thomas  brings a simple story line  for ages 3-6 that is easy to understand.

2. Ida Always/ Carson Levine. A story of two polar bears, Gus and Ida. Ida becomes sick with an illness.

She can't seem to get well, and she later dies. Again told in simple language that is easy to understand.

3. Badgers Parting Gifts/Varely .  This is another outstanding book that can be used for a death in the family, both human or animal. The woodland animals are all sad when their friend  Badger dies. They loved him, Then they talk about different memories they had with him and of him , and they all feel better.

        4. I'll always love you/ Wihelm. Elfie , a dachshund, has a special boy who loves him and spends a lot of time with him. But one morning  Elfie does not wake up. Again a simple story designed too help young ones understand death of someone you love.