12 Essential Books About Cancer for Kids and Teens

Early Childhood: Books About Cancer for Children 2-5 years old

What Every Child Needs to Know About Cancer by Bradley Snyder and Marc Engelsgjerd (2014) 

This simple board book addresses cancer using language and images that are easy for the young child to understand. It also eases the most common fears of some children, including “Can I catch cancer?” and “Is it my fault?”.

Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings by Ellen McVicker (2018)

Told from the perspective of a young child affected by a loved one’s cancer diagnosis, this story provides a gentle and loving way to help a child learn about  cancer and subsequent treatment. It also explores ways the child can be an involved, active supporter of a loved one’s cancer journey. 

Nowhere Hair by Sue Glader (2015)

Nowhere Hair focuses on hair loss due to chemotherapy. The book, written in verse, uses hair loss as the platform for addressing common fears and concerns young children may have when a loved one has cancer. 

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst (2018) 

Although not specific to cancer, The Invisible String addresses separation and provides a way for families to stay connected. This book can be used to help children feel connected to a loved one when that loved one is in the hospital or getting treatment. It can also be helpful if a child is experiencing separation anxiety related to going to school or staying with family or friends. 

Feelings by Todd Parr (2008)

This simple picture book will help young children name and identify feelings and emotions. The simple drawings encourage children to consider their own feelings and can be a tool for talking about emotions in a safe and fun way. 

Middle Childhood: Books About Cancer for Children 6-12 years old

When Someone You Love Has Cancer: A Guide to Help Kids Cope by Alaric Lewis (2005)

This book uses simple age-appropriate language and images that help children understand a cancer diagnosis, as well as possible treatments, side effects, and outcomes. It offers a way to openly share emotions and reactions to the changes occurring in a child’s life. 

Because Someone I Love Has Cancer by American Cancer Society (2002)

Activity books offer effective ways for children to learn about their own emotions and reactions to a loved one’s cancer diagnosis. This book provides a tool for adults to engage with their children in a way that feels safe and supportive. 

Becky and the Worry Cup by Wendy Schlessel Harpham and Jonas Kulikauskas (1997)

This book provides suggestions on how to support a child affected by a loved one’s cancer diagnosis. It is a companion book to When a Parent Has Cancer: A Guide to Caring for Your Children.

Cancer Party!: Explain Cancer, Chemo, and Radiation to Kids in a Totally Non-Scary Way by Sarah Olsher (2009)

This book explains the nature of cancer cells in simple terms. It clarifies what cancer is and explains how to treat it. 

Adolescence: Books About Cancer for Teens 13+ years old

My Parent Has Cancer and it Really Sucks by Maya Silver and Marc Silver (2013)

A father-daughter duo affected by a cancer diagnosis wrote this book. It combines their own personal experiences with input from medical professionals, as well as stories and advice from other teens affected by a parent’s cancer diagnosis and treatment. 

Nana, What’s Cancer? by Beverlye Hyman Fead (2009)

This book tells the story of a granddaughter asking her Nana to explain cancer. The book has a gentle tone meant to both answer questions and ease fears.

When Your Parent Has Cancer: A Guide for Teens by National Cancer Institute (2012)

This pamphlet-style book (also available as a PDF) covers an array of topics important to teens. Beginning with diagnosis and treatment, it also delves into school, friends, and community support.