Sally goes to Heaven by Stephen Huneck. Abrams 2014.
Sally, a much-loved family pet, is tired and achy. One morning, she wakes up in Heaven. She is happy to be pain-free, and the afterlife is amazing. She just wishes she could tell her people she is fine. And, that her people find another dog to love, as they love her.
The pipi swing by Sarona Aiono-Iosefa, illustrated by Bruce Potter. Reed 2007.
The narrator’s father died four years earlier – victim of a drunk-driver. At 12, his daughter is settling in to life without her father, and shares stories of what life was like in the immediate aftermath of his death.
The story highlights how long grief lives – and that important people are still a part of everyday life. Her grandparents have invited her a special dance – something they used to do with her dad, their son, but have been unable to previously.
Haere: Farewell, Jack, farewell by Tim Tipene, illustrated by Huhana Smith. Huia 2005.
A simple, moving story of a whanau’s grieving and mourning process. Deeply embedded in tikanga Māori (protocol) around death and birth. The cycle of life is recognised with the birth of a new child – named after Koro Jack.
Brodie by Joy Cowley, illustrated by Chris Mousdale. Scholastic 2001.
A story of friendship as the young narrator shares his time with his classmate, Brodie, who has long-term health issues, which lead to his death.
An ultimately life-affirming story, about the importance of friendship, and the lengthy, yet changing, nature of grief.
