Michael Rosen’s Sad Book: Grief Picture Book
Michael Rosen’s Sad Book is a picture book about a father’s grief after the death of his son, Eddie. Its straightforward account is presented as a way to begin conversations with children and families about loss and difficult feelings.
At a glance
- A personal account of Michael Rosen’s grief following his son Eddie’s death.
- Uses simple words and pictures to address complicated emotions and loss.
- Presented as a starting point for conversations with children and families.
Reference price: £7.99
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Customer feedback highlights Quentin Blake’s illustrations and describes the book as moving.
- Customers praise its clear writing and usefulness in opening conversations about grief.
- The feedback describes it as meaningful for adults as well as children, including bereaved parents.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Walker Books |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 3 Jan. 2011 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 40 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 9781406317848 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1406317848 |
| Weight listed | 235 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 21.8 x 0.5 x 29.3 cm |
| Reading age listed | 6 - 11 years, from customers |
|---|
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Families looking for a picture book to help introduce conversations about bereavement and grief.
- Adults seeking a plainly written account of loss to read or discuss with children.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
85% 85% - 4 stars
10% 10% - 3 stars
4% 4% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback describes the book as moving and praises Quentin Blake’s illustrations, clear writing and ability to make difficult feelings approachable. Customers also report that it can open conversations and resonate with adults, including bereaved parents. This fits the book’s stated focus on grief and family discussion, though the feedback does not establish that every reader or child will find its treatment appropriate.
Positive themes
- Customers praise the illustrations and describe the book as profoundly moving.
- Feedback highlights clear, simple writing and the book’s usefulness for starting conversations about grief.
- Customers say it can speak to children and adults, including bereaved parents.
Frequently asked questions
What is Michael Rosen’s Sad Book about?
It recounts Michael Rosen’s grief after his son Eddie died and addresses sadness, loss and difficult emotions.
Can the book help start a conversation about grief?
The listing presents it as a way to begin conversations with children and families. Customer feedback also highlights its clear writing and conversation-opening usefulness.
What age is the book listed for?
The product details give a reading age of 6–11 years, with that age guidance attributed to customers.
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