Bridge to Terabithia

Katherine Paterson

Jess Aarons wants to be the fastest boy in the class, but when a girl named Leslie Burke moves into the neighbouring farm his life changes forever. Even though she runs faster than him, Jess begins to think Leslie might be okay - she's clever and funny and not a bit soppy. And it is Leslie who invents Terabithia, the secret country on an island across the creek where he can escape his troublesome family. The only way to reach Terabithia is by rope-swing where Jess and Leslie become King and Queen, defeating giants, sharing stories and dreams, and plotting against their enemies. They are invincible - until tragedy strikes. It is more dreadful than anything Jess had ever dreamed of, but as he struggles to cope with his grief and anger, he finds that his family value him more than he'd thought and that, still King, he could even save Terabithia for the future. Bridge to Terabithia has also been adapted into a film.

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The Fault in Our Stars

John Green

The Fault In Our Stars is about a young teenage girl who has been diagnosed with lung cancer and attends a cancer support group. Hazel is 16 and is reluctant to go to the support group, but she soon realises that it was a good idea, befriending another young person there. The Fault in Our Stars has also been adapted into a film.

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Vicky Angel

Jacqueline Wilson

Jade is used to living in the shadow of her best friend, Vicky. Vicky's sparkly, hilarious and full of life. And, she's certainly not going to let a small thing like being dead stop her from living life to the full. But as Jade attempts to move on, Vicky is determined to make her presence felt. Vicky Angel is a heart-warming and hilarious read that explores grief, guilt and confidence. A moving story that young readers will adore.

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When a Friend Dies: A book for teens about grieving and healing

Marilyn E Gootman

When a Friend Dies offers sensitive advice and genuine understanding for teens coping with grief and loss. The death of a friend is a wrenching event for anyone at any age and can spark feelings that range from sadness to guilt to anxiety. Teenagers especially need help coping with grief and loss. This sensitive book answers questions grieving teens often have, like How should I be acting? How long will this last? and What if I can’t handle my grief on my own? The book also addresses the complicated emotions that can accompany the death of an acquaintance, as opposed to a close friend.

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