Books for Children

A few months ago, I began looking for books to add to Scarlett's collection that dealt with childhood cancer.  It's not an easy topic to talk about, let alone to write and illustrate in an age-appropriate way.  These are the ones I have found so far.  I have read them all, and I gave an estimated age level for each.

• Brave Just Like Me by Kimberly S Ruff, Illustrated by Stacy Venturi-Pickett and Leslie Sheets  A little girl shows us how she is brave though doctors, blood draws, medicine, NG tube, dialysis, x-rays, EEGs, surgery and therapy.  Cancer is not discussed, and we don't know what her diagnosis is, but she goes through many similar experiences.  Good for ages 2-7. 

• My Brain Tumour Adventures by Sharon Dempsey, Illustrated by Gabbie Collins.  A little boy is diagnosed with a brain tumor, has MRIS, surgery, loses hair with chemo, and radiation.  Illustrations are all black and white; written in British English, so some terms are slightly different.  Good for ages 2-7.

• Why, Charlie Brown, Why? by Charles M. Shultz.  Linus' friend Janice feels sick, and is diagnosed with leukemia.  Charlie Brown and the gang learn that cancer is not contagious, that Janice did nothing wrong, and that she just wants to be like the other kids.  This one deals with tough stuff, but it's all accurate.  Includes a Glossary of cancer-related words.  Good for ages 7-12.

• The Lemonade Club by Patricia Polacco.  Based on the true story of Polaccos' daughter, a 5th grader is diagnosed with leukemia.  She and her friend share a special bond with their teacher, who is also diagnosed with breast cancer.  The class supports the girl by shaving their heads.  The teacher recovers, and the girls are braidesmaids in her wedding.  Good for ages 7-12.

All of these are available on Amazon (My Brain Tumour Adventures is out of print, so it's a little pricey, but available).  I wanted to have these on hand for Scarlett, her friends or any future students who may encounter such illness.   I'm always looking to add to my collection (I'm a bit of a kid's book hoarder!), so I'd love to know about any other resources out there.