CHILDREN’S BOOKS THAT ADDRESS LONELINESS

We all experience loneliness occasionally, but loneliness and isolation may occasionally overwhelm youngsters. By telling stories of other people who have experienced comparable feelings, adults may aid youngsters in growing their emotional intelligence. These uplifting children’s books that deal with loneliness demonstrate the steps that both lonely people and other people take to promote connectedness in the world.

THE INVISIBLE BOY

by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Patrice Barton

When I read a book to my kid, I sometimes hear his internal thoughts working through the plot. In this novel, such was the case for a kid who feels invisible, overlooked, and left out at school. Then, one day, a new student joins the class, and a simple act of compassion makes everything right again. It’s a tenderly presented tale that instills compassion and understanding. Even discussion questions are included in the book’s back. Ages 4 and up.

YOU ARE NEVER ALONE

by Elin Kelsey

The reader is encouraged to reflect on their relationship to nature via lyrical prose. The reader learns how bacteria, small plankton, and clouds all work together to support life and the environment by incorporating science into the story. However, Kelsey makes sure to remember the emotional needs of people, such as how an animal may “soothe lonely moments” or how the light can “fill you with hope.” Kim creates stunning three-dimensional illustrations. Ages 5 and up.

NOBODY HUGS A CACTUS

by Carter Goodrich

This book is amazing. Hank the cactus has a sour disposition. Hank, perched on his ledge, shoos animals and tumbleweeds away in his irritable manner because he just wants to be left alone. Hank finds it repulsive when a cowboy says he wants a hug. At first. But as he begins to like the notion, he decides to get someone to hug him. I don’t want to spoil the conclusion, but it is ideal. Ages 3 and up.

SAY HELLO

by Jack Foreman

We see a lonely dog yearning for a buddy on each double-page spread, yet there are very few words. He soon becomes a part of a soccer-playing group of kids, and a similar story starts with a lonely youngster. The little youngster expresses his feelings about what it’s like to be excluded. Say hello to the kids when the dog’s ball rolls over to him! A book with a strong message that seems to be easy. Ages 3 and up.

THE RED TREE

by Shaun Tan

Tan explores the more sinister aspect of loneliness in his sparse prose and vivid visuals. A lonely girl awakens with the sometimes bizarre experience of being alone, waiting for anything to happen, and roaming in a bewildering and wide universe. The girl’s mood is improved when she enters her room and discovers a red leaf that has appeared in the center of the floor and grown into a towering red tree. Certain to lead to some fascinating discussions! Ages 5 and up.

THE VISITOR

by Antje Damm

Elise lives alone.  She is terrified of everything; therefore, she never goes outdoors. A paper aircraft comes into her home one day. Before she can react, a mysterious boy knocks on the door and requests permission to enter. The two enjoy themselves when she extends an invitation to him. He is read to by Elise as they eat. Elise begins folding her paper aircraft after he departs. I like the message that happiness comes into our life when we allow ourselves to connect with others. Photographs of dioramas are used as illustrations in Damm’s distinctive works. A beautiful, peaceful novel. Ages 3 and up.

CASPIAN FINDS A FRIEND

by Jacqueline Veissid, illustrated by Merrilees Brown

The home of Caspian is a lighthouse. He longs for a companion since he feels lonely. We watch as Caspian writes a message and puts it in a bottle in the stunning, lucid graphics. He gets a one-word response, meets his new companion, and they go on amazing adventures together. Reading aloud the serene, beautiful prose is a delight. Ages 3 and up.

THE STORM WHALE 

by Benji Davies

In this book, a boy discovers a newborn whale on the seashore and carries it home. He attempts to keep it a secret in the shower, but finally, his father learns. This sweet story focuses on a boy’s relationship with his working father, what it’s like to be lonely, and how to connect with the people we care about. Beautiful illustrations are used. Ages 3 and up.

HERMAN AND ROSIE 

by Gus Gordon

Back in 2013, Herman and Rosies were one of my favorite novels. Both Herman and Rosie are musicians but are also loners looking for a buddy. The book has a tonne of delicious information, both in the character descriptions and the illustrations. It’s a narrative of love for the city, music, and life. Ages 4 and up.

NOTHING RHYMES WITH ORANGE

by Adam Rex

Does this sound fair to you at all? All the other fruits, after all, have several rhymes, but Orange feels excluded and sad. Your youngsters won’t be able to resist trying so very, very hard to think of a word that rhymes with orange after reading this funny take on the joys of rhyming. A sweet tale of Apple watching out for his pal Orange may be found amid the wordplay hilarity. Ages 3 and up.

Choose your Reaction!