Brodie by Joy Cowley, illustrated by Chris Mousdale

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.