Processing the loss of a loved one, whether sudden or expected, is something we all have to go through, but that doesn’t make it any easier. No matter how old you are when it happens, it can help to see your experiences reflected in fiction.
If you need comfort or are just looking for a story that explores darker subjects thoughtfully, I hope you find what you are looking for here.
Before We Wake by Sophia Glock
When Alicia’s father died, it seemed like the only thing that remained the same was her best friend, Marisa. But now Marisa is changing too. She’s focusing more on her new boyfriend than anything else. Alicia finds solace in lucid dreaming–that is, until Marisa’s boyfriend makes an unexpected appearance in a dream she thought she controlled. Can he help Alicia move forward, or will he just make things worse?
Note: In addition to parent death, this book also features pet death.
Crumble by Meredith McClaren and Andrea Bell
Emily loves baking with her Aunt Gina, who has taught her how to bake her feelings into her food. When Gina is killed in a car accident, Emily’s grief drives her to transfer her sadness into a disgusting yet irresistible dessert. But eating your feelings isn’t the healthiest way to deal with loss, as Emily is eventually forced to realize.
Ghoster Heights by Corey Lansdall, Kelly Mellings, and Lisa LaRose
Ona has just lost her mother and, now that her dad has moved them in with her grandmother, she’s lost her home, too. Ona has no particular interest in making friends, but a ghost haunting her new building’s boiler room sure wants to make friends with her! By finding out why the building is haunted, Ona might be able to lay her own ghosts to rest.
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Pilu of the Woods by Mai K. Nguyen
Willow has not been coping well with her mother’s death. She runs away, only to make an unexpected friend in a tree spirit named Pilu, who is lost but doesn’t want to go home yet. Willow decides that she knows what’s best for Pilu and tries to force her to go home, only to realize that you can’t change reality to suit your needs…or run away from your problems, either.
Supergirl: Being Super by Mariko Tamaki and Joëlle Jones
Kara has been developing incredible powers, but when an earthquake strikes her hometown, those powers aren’t enough to save her best friend. Overwhelmed by guilt and grief, Kara retreats from the world. It will take time, support from friends and family, and a new, distracting mystery to help Kara accept her strengths and limitations.
Looking for more comic recommendations that tackle heavy themes? Dive into these emotionally devastating mental health memoirs, these comics about loneliness, and these comics tackling tough topics.
English (US) · 