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The web Directory of Information Materials for People Affected by Cancer is regularly updated and currently has details of over 1,900 booklets, leaflets, books and audiovisual materials for people affected by cancer. Most have been published in the last five years but we have included some older ones that are still useful.
CLIC Sargent
Lucy is five years old when she is diagnosed with cancer. This illustrated, colour storybook describes what happens when she has to go to the hospital for tests and treatment. The story follows Lucy from first feeling ill, through diagnosis and treatment, to recovery and returning to normal life.
CLIC Sargent
Mary is five years old when she is diagnosed with a brain tumour. This illustrated, colour storybook describes what happens when she has to go to the hospital for tests and treatment. The story follows Mary from first feeling ill, through diagnosis and treatment, to recovery and return to normal life.
Pomelo Pip
Benny’s Hat follows Friz’s story from when she first learns of her brother’s illness, right through to his death and beyond. With its realistic but hopeful and gentle tone, readers will see that it is normal to feel a whole range of emotions –sad, worried, confused, angry and happy, even during the darkest of times. (Publisher)
Dial Books for Young Readers
Author Jessica Reid Sliwerski was diagnosed with breast cancer four months after giving birth to her daughter. And through all the stages of treatment--surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, losing her hair--she thought about how hard it would be to talk to your child about cancer while coping with it. She wrote this picture book to give other parents and their children an encouraging tool for having those conversations--a lovingly upbeat book that is also refreshingly authentic and straightforward. With its simple text and heartwarming illustrations, Cancer Hates Kisses is relatable to any type of cancer. (Publisher)
Franklin Watts
This picture book uses the first-person testimony of Naomi, a 10-year-old girl with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Naomi explains what it was like to find out she had cancer, when she lost all her hair and what it was like spending so much time in hospital. The intimate and direct impact of using Naomi’s real first-person testimony encourages children to empathise with her situation, and to understand how some children’s lives are very different from their own. Naomi talks about school, family, friends and explains the confusion and chaos caused by cancer. This BAFTA award-winning story was originally produced as an animation for the BBC. Aimed at children aged 9 and up. (Publisher)
Sarah West
Mummy’s Got a Poorly is an engaging, thought-provoking story, told through the eyes of a five-year-old girl whose mummy is unwell. It is aimed at the young children of parents with a serious illness to support them through a difficult time. Whilst not mentioning the ‘C’ word it does cover the effects that medicine such as chemotherapy can have and also provides lots of opportunities for children to ask questions and discuss their feelings about their own parent’s illness. (Publisher)
North Staffordshire Press
Flo has two of the most fun and competitive grandads in the world who can never resist the chance to get one over on the other. That is until Flo is faced with some devastating news when one of her grandads is diagnosed with a serious illness. Although her world is turned upside down, Flo continues to be inspired by her grandad whose sheer will, determination and positive attitude will not be diminished no matter what. So join Flo as she embarks on an emotional roller coaster as she laughs, cries, makes new friends and discovers what it truly means to never, ever give up. The Grandad Grand Prix is a fictional story inspired by true events and a must read for all age groups. (Publisher)
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Snibbles and Big Tree are best friends! They have always hung out together, and Snibbles loves Big Tree very much. When Big Tree unexpectedly falls ill with woodworm, Snibbles is very upset and angry. The illness is a very bad one and Big Tree does not feel well and doesn't want to play for a long time. Poor Snibbles! He wants Big Tree to get better, but he feels as if there is nothing he can do. What can Snibbles and his friends do to help Big Tree through his treatment and recovery? This beautifully illustrated storybook describes the anger and emotion that many children encounter when a close relative or friend is diagnosed with a long-term illness, such as cancer. The story of Big Tree depicts how things are often out of your control and sets out effective strategies for dealing with these emotions. This story features loveable characters and vivid illustrations, as well as activities for children aged 5+ to complete with their parents or professionals in times of illness and loss. (Publisher)
Anthony Nolan
Lucy's dad is diagnosed with leukaemia and has a stem cell transplant. Lucy tells you all about it in this colourful, illustrated booklet.
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Information about the health of a single kidney after treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
This factsheet gives an overview of breast cancer risk after treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Information about the health of your lungs after treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Information for teenagers and young adults about research and clinical trials.
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
This factsheet is about the health of your heart after treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Information about osteonecrosis (or avascular necrosis) and the health of your bones after treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Information about osteoporosis and the health of your bones after treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
This factsheet gives an overview of the potential late effects of bleomycin treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Information about osteoradionecrosis and the health of your bones after radiotherapy treatment for childhood cancer. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
Healthy lifestyle advice for childhood cancer survivors. Written to accompany the CCLG booklet "Aftercure: A guide for teenage and young adult survivors of childhood cancer".
Self-published using CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
It is very difficult for a family to explain to a child what cancer is when a loved one has been diagnosed. This book explains to children what cancer is.
Blurb
Kelly Strenge has been explaining cancer to children for more than a decade. This edition educates children about cancer in a very honest, light-hearted, and inspiring way. Children will discover: What cancer is and how it is treated; The side effects cancer treatment can have; Who is affected by cancer; Cancer is not contagious; Ways to prevent cancer; Who they can turn to for comfort and to help them cope; Cancer doesn't define a person; There are positive aspects of the journey; and much more. (Publisher)
Blue Canoe Books
A beautifully illustrated children's book which takes the reader, aged 4 upwards, on an adventure with Davey and his Really Magic Carpet. Davey's magic carpet was a gift from his daddy as he died, and each thread is made from a memory they had together. It is an uplifting story about making memories as a family, that is valuable and engaging for any child, but especially those preparing for loss or needing support if bereaved. It is soft back, 21cmx21cm and includes 3 activity pages. (Publisher)
Little Island Books
Philip is twelve years old and life is pretty good. He gets on with his mum and gets by pretty well at school - in spite of girl problems, teacher problems, bully problems and - er - poetry problems. Philip's happy-go-lucky life is disrupted when his mother gets breast cancer. Bad enough that your mother is seriously ill - but could she not have developed a less embarrassing kind of cancer - toe cancer, maybe, or ear cancer? Philip's attempts to cope with his situation are both hilarious and touching. Through it all, he's writing letters to his hero, the comedian Harry Hill, looking for advice. A hilarious take on the unfunny subject of cancer; this book brings one of modern life's most prevalent illnesses into the light and gives it a human face. (Publisher)
Books For Caring Kids
Jonny is a little superhero with a BIG problem. His Mum is sick. How can he help? Join Super Jonny and Bear, as they go to the hospital to investigate. LEARN who the staff working in the hospital are and what they do. DISCOVER Jonny's secret weapon. Super Jonny is recommended by teachers for teachers. The question page links to the English and New Zealand national curriculums. These questions teach the children how to help the sick. Some people need regular hospital care to manage their disease. These people have their own page entitled: Preparing for a hospital admission: 5 tips for chronically ill moms. This ensures that any mother who is going into hospital, has some supplies when her children visit. This list of simple suggestions could also be filled by any adult wanting to help a Mom who is suddenly sick. With its big bold professionally drawn illustrations, Super Jonny is a valuable resource for your family, school or medical centre. (Publisher).
Little Five Star
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, his or her siblings may struggle with complex emotions such as confusion, guilt, and fear. Part story, part journal, Jamie's Journey: Cancer from the Voice of a Sibling helps siblings of pediatric cancer patients cope with those intense feelings. The first half of the book is about 13-year-old Jamie who describes the roller coaster of emotions she experiences when her 10-year-old sister, Jordan, is diagnosed with cancer. Jamie laments the loss of her 'normal' teenage life and describes feeling forgotten as her family focuses on Jordan's medical needs. Jamie finds solace through journaling about her experience, and encourages the reader to write about his or her own journey on the pages provided in the book. Jamie's Journey is unique in that it's designed especially for the siblings of pediatric cancer patients. Author Sharon Wozny draws from her experience volunteering with Children's Cancer Network for the past three years. During the time she's spent with young cancer patients and their families, Wozny has discovered that the patients' siblings face unique challenges. "They endure so much," she said. "They feel so much pain on so many levels and need to know that they are heroes also." Wozny has made the second half of the book an interactive journal, offering siblings of pediatric cancer patients a safe place to share their own journey. (Publisher)
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
This illustrated booklet has been written for young adults (16+) who have survived cancer. Please note: this booklet was reviewed in March 2017 but no changes were made so versions dated 2015 are still current.
Breast Cancer Care
This book is aimed at children under six and follows Elly and Jack as they learn of their mother's diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer. Also available as a read-aloud iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch download, read by Zoe Wanamaker (free iOS version or download from iTunes).
CLIC Sargent
The author was diagnosed with osteosarcoma when she was 12. She wrote this booklet two years later when she had finished treatment because there was nothing for people her age about what it was like to be in hospital and how to handle it. There are tips for surviving long stays in hospital and keeping positive, and explanations of medical terms.
Self-published using CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
A gentle caring book about a boy, Bertie, whose daddy dies from cancer. This book is for use by a parent, grandparent, teacher or counsellor or anyone who is caring for a child during a difficult time. This book is not intended for a child to read alone, but in a loving nurturing environment to enable the child to share their thoughts and feelings about their loss. (Publisher)
Raintree (imprint of Capstone Global Library Limited)
Cancer can be a scary word. But the more you know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of cancer, the better equipped you are to understand this disease. Clear, concise information breaks down the disease, the experience of having it, or relating to someone who has cancer. Be inspired by true stories from youths who have experienced cancer in their own lives and how they fought this disease. (Publisher)
Thousand Words Press
The little girl in Nowhere Hair knows two things: Her mom's hair is not on her head anymore, so therefore it must be somewhere around the house. After searching the obvious places, the story reveals that her mother, although going through cancer treatment, is still silly, attentive, happy and yes, sometimes very tired and cranky. She learns that she didn't cause the cancer, can't catch it, and that Mommy still is very much up for the job of mothering. 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. (Publisher)
Jessica Kingsley Publishers
When Mia learns that her mother has died, all the colour in her world changes to a dreary grey. She feels guilty, angry, sad and lost (sometimes all at once!), and she doesn't know what to do to feel better. Little by little, with the help of her Dad, Mia learns how to cope with her difficult feelings. Together, they remember her mother by creating memory boxes, and they even get rid of anger by crazily sloshing paints and punching holes in newspapers! In the end, Mia finds her own, very special way of coping. When she feels sad or lonely, she looks up to the stars. Full of practical strategies, this storybook for children aged 5-9 addresses loss, grief and hope. Written from the perspective of Mia who has experienced the sudden death of her mother, it covers the different stages of grief, from initial disbelief, anger and sadness to resolution and hope. The book highlights the importance of giving children the time and space to work through their feelings and provides a host of thoughtful activities to help them cope. It also addresses some of the questions children commonly ask about death. Uniquely illustrated, this book will be an invaluable resource for anyone supporting a grieving child, especially bereavement counsellors, social workers, teachers and other school staff, as well as parents. (Publishers)
Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group
This illustrated leaflet for children has a list of things that the child with cancer may want their friends to know.
Paula and Richard Middleton
A short story for children that uses accessible characters to help explain to a child about a parent being diagnosed with a brain tumour. It follows Toby the teapot's daddy through the journey of the first signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
Millgate House Publishers
A poignant and true story written from a child's perspective, I Love You Daddy is sensitive and insightful and helps to support the emotional needs of children faced with the pain of losing a loved one to cancer. (Publisher)
Walker Books
When a little boy is told that his grandma has died, he isn't really sure what death means. In this reassuring lift-the-flap book with bold and colourful illustrations, he asks his mum important questions about death and bereavement. Why do people have to die? What happens to them once they are dead? What can he do to remember his grandma? Through this gentle dialogue between parent and child, Melanie Walsh sensitively explores the issues surrounding death and bereavement from a child's perspective. (Publisher)
Orchard Books
Fox has lived a long and happy life in the forest. One day, he lies down in his favourite clearing, takes a deep breath, and falls asleep for ever. Before long, Fox's friends begin to gather in the clearing. One by one, they tell stories of the special moments that they shared with Fox. And, as they share their memories, a tree begins to grow, becoming bigger and stronger, sheltering and protecting all the animals in the forest, just as Fox did when he was alive. This gentle and comforting tale celebrates life and the memories that are left behind when a loved one dies. (Publisher)
Southgate Publishers
This beautifully illustrated story, written for children aged 5 - 9 years, is about coming to terms with the death of someone special. Featuring the same much-loved characters from "Saying goodbye to hare", Rabbit and Buzzard reflect together on the ups and downs, feelings and experiences of the first year following the death of their dear friend Hare, as they watch the "Great Race". This lovely book is about treasuring memories, creating a legacy and celebrating the life of the person who has died. Inspired by the author's experience of supporting her young children following the death of their father, this book delivers a hopeful, supportive message for children and adults alike. There are guidance notes included for the adult who is supporting the child; these are aimed at helping further exploration of the questions and feelings children have at this difficult time. (Publisher)
Books For Caring Kids
Jonny is a little superhero with a BIG problem. His Mum is sick. How can he help? Join Super Jonny and Bear, as they go to the hospital to investigate. LEARN who the staff working in the hospital are and what they do. DISCOVER Jonny's secret weapon. Super Jonny is recommended by teachers for teachers. The question page links to the English and New Zealand national curriculums. These questions teach the children how to help the sick. Some people need regular hospital care to manage their disease. These people have their own page entitled: Preparing for a hospital admission: 5 tips for chronically ill moms. This ensures that any mother who is going into hospital, has some supplies when her children visit. This list of simple suggestions could also be filled by any adult wanting to help a Mom who is suddenly sick. With its big bold professionally drawn illustrations, Super Jonny is a valuable resource for your family, school or medical centre. (Publisher).
Hodder Children's Books
Grace's fun-loving Mum has found a lump. Her north London world of sleepovers, tap dancing and playing the clarinet fall apart when she is sent to live with her grumpy old granddad on his farm in Yorkshire while her mother goes into hospital to get better. Grace misses her mother so much it hurts, and doesn't quite understand what is happening to her. And things go from bad to worse when she starts school and becomes the bullies' latest target. But Grace is no longer alone when she meets Rainbow Girl Megan and her pig, Claude - when she's with them she feels as if she can confront anything. At Easter time when Grace misses her mum the most, she knows she must find a way to get to London. With Megan's help, she hatches a plan to run away that involves Claude, chocolate Easter eggs and a risky ID swap. But it's all worth it if it means that she finally gets to see her mum ...(Publisher)
Myeloma UK
Kelsey's dad has been diagnosed with myeloma. This booklet describes what myeloma is, how it may be treated and how the illness affects the patient and the family.
Self-published using CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
This one-of-a-kind story is a message of hope for young children and families who are undergoing chemotherapy or any difficult struggle. Without words like cancer and chemo, the kid-friendly tale follows a brave hare on her courageous journey to overcome illness. A mysterious, healing stream offers the potential to get well, but there are surprising side effects that will challenge the hare's strength and determination. This book is about believing wishes can come true even in the most extreme circumstances. Ideal for early stage cancers due to the message of survival. Perfect for pairing with honest discussions about your personal situation. (Publisher)
Cancer Focus Northern Ireland
This illustrated book for young children aims to help them understand and prepare for the death of a parent or significant adult.
The Choir Press
Join Suzie as she goes to Grandma's funeral and says goodbye. Suzie can help explain to a child who may be anxious about going to a funeral for the first time. A simple story to help and show what they might experience on this sad day. (Publisher)
Picture Corgi
When Fox dies the rest of his family are absolutely distraught. How will Mole, Otter and Hare go on without their beloved friend? But, months later, Squirrel reminds them all of how funny Fox used to be, and they realise that Fox is still there in their hearts and memories. (Publisher)
Macmillan Children’s Books
A string of paper dolls goes on a fantastical adventure through the house and out into the garden. They soon escape the clutches of the toy dinosaur and the snapping jaws of the oven-glove crocodile, but then a very real pair of scissors threatens. The Paper Dolls is a stunning, rhythmical story of childhood, memory and the power of imagination from the author of The Gruffalo, and illustrating talent Rebecca Cobb. (Publisher)
Sourcebooks Fire
A book especially for the most forgotten family member when cancer strikes a parent: teens It s estimated that one million teens have a parent or close relative with cancer -- and it really sucks. Which is why father-daughter team Mark and Maya Silver, who was a teenager when her mother was diagnosed with cancer, have written a book of advice and support specifically for the underserved teenage audience. (Publisher)
Bloomsbury Children's Books
Megan Bright and Jackson Dawes are two teenagers who first meet each other on the hospital ward where they are both being treated for cancer. Megan is scared and worried about her illness, but Jackson seems to be an old hand, having been on the ward for ages. And everybody loves Jackson! He is a whirlwind of life and energy, warmth and sparkle. Megan will need to borrow some of Jackson's extraordinary optimism to face her and Jackson's future. A moving story of first love and a remarkably powerful debut novel. (Publisher)
Lulu.com
The cancer that wouldn't go away is a groundbreaking book, written especially for the child whose parent is living with metastatic cancer. This sensitively written tale uses a gentle, yet realistic approach to help children ages 4-8 face the unique uncertainties of life with incurable cancer. Unlike stories about early-stage cancer, after which the parent is cured and life goes back to normal, for the family in this story, life has irrevocably changed. The future is uncertain. But love and laughter remain constant, as they take life one day at a time. Includes a comprehensive guide ("How to use this book") for parents and professionals, written by child trauma psychologist. (Publisher)
Club Books
When my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 it literally rocked my world, the world of my family, and the world of our friends. I searched everywhere looking for information about breast cancer that teenagers could understand and relate to - I couldn't find any. I decided if I couldn't find any books about breast cancer that I, as a teenager, could understand, I would have to write my own book from my experience on dealing with a loved one who has been diagnosed with cancer and in the hope others could find useful that I struggled to find originally. This is what I put together and for all teenagers and young people out there I hope you find this book useful, helpful and most of all: comforting. Emma Sutherland. (Publisher)
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