Books for Parents & Children

Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings:
When someone you love has cancer...a hopeful, helpful book for kids
by Ellen McVicker and Nanci Hersh (illustrator)

"A beautifully illustrated resource that can be used to educate and support any child who is facing the cancer of a loved one. The story, as told through the eyes of a little boy as he explains his mom's cancer to other children, lends itself to a simple and clear understanding of cancer. ..teaches children to realize the power they have to be an active and integral part of a loved one's cancer journey... or really, any journey for that matter."

https://www.amazon.com/Butterfly-Kisses-someone-hopeful-helpful/dp/0578159937

Mom Has Cancer! (Let’s Talk About It)
by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos

Kindergarten – Grade 2

"This book points out that a diagnosis that Mom has cancer is as frightening for her children as it is for her. The story describes such a situation, helping kids understand how Mom requires special medical care on her path toward regaining health."

https://www.amazon.com/Mom-Cancer-Lets-Talk-About/dp/0764140744

Nowhere Hair: Explains your cancer and chemo to your kids
by Sue Glader

Age 3-10

“The book, written in rhyme, explains hats, scarves, wigs, going bald in public, and the idea of being nice to people who may look a little different than you. It ends with the idea that what is inside of us is far more important than how we look on the outside. For any parent or grandparent, NOWHERE HAIR offers a comfortable platform to explain something that is inherently very difficult.”

https://www.amazon.com/Nowhere-Hair-Explains-cancer-chemo/dp/0984359133

When a Parent Has Cancer: A Guide to Caring for Your Children

by Wendy S. Harpham, M.D.

"Dr. Harpham lays the groundwork of her book with specific plans for helping children through the upheaval of a parent's diagnosis and treatment, remission and recovery, and if necessary, confronting the possibility of death. She emphasizes the importance of being honest with children about the gravity of the illness, while assuring them that their basic needs will always be met."

https://www.amazon.com/When-Parent-Has-Cancer-Children/dp/0060740817