The concept of divorce or separation can be especially difficult to understand for children who are not yet in their teens. At this age, parents often represent the safe and familiar centre of their world so, when that changes, it can bring feelings of confusion, sadness, anger, or even guilt.

While being open is important, sometimes children find it easier to explore these big feelings through stories. Books allow them to step into a character’s shoes, see their own worries reflected and gain comfort from happy or hopeful endings. They can also help parents, grandparents, and carers find the right words for conversations that might otherwise feel overwhelming.

Ian Shann, our family mediator at Move On Mediation in Perth, has put together his suggestions regarding children’s books about divorce that may help kids to cope with the stresses of separation.

The following ten books have been chosen for their warmth, honesty and age-appropriate approach to the topic of divorce. From picture books for pre-schoolers to gentle guides for older children, each one offers some support and reassurance for young readers during a time of change.

10 Children’s Books About Divorce to Help Them Cope

1. Two Homes by Claire Masurel

Alex has two bedrooms, two favourite chairs, and two kitchens — one at Mum’s house, one at Dad’s. This gentle picture book doesn’t dwell on loss; instead, it celebrates the positives of having two loving homes. The repetitive phrasing (“At Daddy’s house… At Mummy’s house…”) and soft watercolour illustrations make it especially soothing for children aged 3–7. By showing that love exists in both spaces, it offers a calm, reassuring introduction to shared parenting arrangements.

2. Dinosaurs Divorce by Marc Brown and Laurene Krasny Brown

This classic children’s book about divorce, often used by counsellors and teachers, uses cheerful dinosaur characters to explain what divorce is, why it might happen and what changes children might expect. It covers a wide range of situations — from moving to a new house to spending time with each parent separately — and acknowledges emotions from anger to relief. Its comic strip–style panels keep the tone light and accessible, making it suitable for children roughly 5–10 years old.

3. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

Although not exclusively about divorce, this story has become a comfort for many families living apart. It tells children that an invisible string connects them to the people they love, no matter how far away they are. The metaphor works beautifully for children who move between homes, reassuring them that love doesn’t vanish with distance. The lyrical text and warm illustrations make it a book that resonates with both younger and older primary-aged children.

4. It’s Not Your Fault, Koko Bear by Vicki Lansky

Koko Bear’s parents are divorcing and he feels sad, angry, and unsure. Through Koko’s experiences, the book reassures children that divorce is never their fault and that both parents still love them. Each page features notes for parents with ideas for discussion, making it a practical tool as well as a comforting story. The colourful bear illustrations keep it friendly for children aged 3–7, even when dealing with bigger emotions.

5. Standing on My Own Two Feet by Tamara Schmitz

Addison’s parents live in separate homes but he learns that he can stand tall and strong because he has two feet — and two parents — to support him. The story uses simple, positive language to affirm a child’s resilience, while bold, bright illustrations give it an upbeat feel. Its short sentences and relatable imagery make it an ideal book for 4–8-year-olds who need reassurance that life can still be happy after divorce.

6. My Family’s Changing by Pat Thomas

Part of the “A First Look At…” series, this book explains divorce in a straightforward, sensitive way, covering different living arrangements, emotional reactions, and the reassurance that love remains constant. Written by a psychotherapist, it includes open-ended questions to help children express their feelings. This makes it a particularly helpful choice for parents, teachers, and counsellors working with children aged 4–8.

7. Mum and Dad Glue by Kes Gray

In this rhyming picture book, a little boy wishes he could find “a special glue” to fix his parents’ relationship. As the story unfolds, he realises that while his parents won’t get back together, the love they have for him is still whole and strong. The gentle humour and warm illustrations make this a touching and relatable read for children aged 4–7 who may be hoping for reconciliation.

8. When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos

This book addresses the tension children may feel when parents are no longer friendly with one another. It explains, in age-appropriate terms, that relationships between adults can change, but the love for their child remains. The soft illustrations and gentle tone make it a reassuring choice for children aged 5–8 who are adjusting to new dynamics between their parents.

9. Was It the Chocolate Pudding? by Sandra Levins

Told from a child’s perspective, this book blends humour and empathy to tackle a common fear — that the divorce is somehow their fault. Using a chocolate pudding mishap as a metaphor, the story makes it clear that separation is an adult decision, not caused by anything a child has done. Its conversational tone and everyday family setting make it engaging for children aged 4–8.

10. A Smart Girl’s Guide: Parents’ Divorce by Nancy Holyoke

Part of the American Girl series, this book is aimed at slightly older children (8–12) who want honest answers about divorce. It covers emotions, routines, and even navigating social situations, all with a friendly, big-sister voice. The colourful design and illustrations keep it approachable, while the advice helps children feel more in control of their own story.

Why These Books Matter

Stories give children a safe space to process emotions, ask questions, and find comfort. They can help them understand that their feelings — whether sad, angry, confused, or relieved — are valid and normal. By reading together, adults can create opportunities for conversation, helping children feel heard and supported.

While no book can make divorce easy, the right story can help a child feel less alone, more reassured, and more confident that love is something that doesn’t have to change.