Blog Post

The Best Books to Help Your Child Understand Divorce

Almy & Thomas Solicitors • 23 November 2023

Alongside offering being a great tool for learning and offering a perfect escape from the mundane of everyday life, books are also an effective vessel for making sense of some of life’s more thornier topics. That’s why, for children going through big family changes in the wake of their parents splitting up, reading can often provide some much-needed clarity and comfort. If you’re concerned about the impact of divorce on a child in your life, here are some age-appropriate books that have proven useful for navigating the complexities of divorce and separation. While there are a lot out there, this list should act as a good starting point.


For Under 7’s

●     My Family’s Changing by Pat Thomas: Reinforced by lovely illustrations, the topic of divorce is addressed here in a simple and straightforward manner.

●     Living with Mum and Living with Dad: My Two Homes by Melanie Walsh: For very young children, Walsh has created a simple yet reassuring story.

●     Ms. Cliff the Climber by Allan Ahlberg: In this story about the ups, downs and tangles of a keen mountain climber, Clara Cliff marries, has children, divorces, remarries and has more children. The book follows the family’s adventures.


For 7-11 Years

●     The Lottie Project by Jacqueline Wilson: At odds with her strict new teacher, and concerned that her unmarried mother is falling for the divorced father of the little boy she childminds, Charlie's life becomes increasingly stressful. This humorous, touching story is particularly useful for those coming to terms with the idea of a potential stepfamily.

●     I, Cosmo by Carlie Sorosiak: Told from the perspective of a beloved pet golden retriever, I, Cosmo is a joyful story of one dog’s mission to bring his separating human family back together again (and eat a lot of bacon along the way).

●     One Mum Too Many by Ann Bryant: Convinced her dad’s new girlfriend is to blame for her parent’s divorce, twelve-year-old Sarah must learn to navigate her reorganised family structure and make the very best of her circumstances.


For 11+ Years

●     The Suitcase Kid by Jacqueline Wilson: Ever notorious for addressing difficult topics to younger audiences, Jacqueline Wilson features twice on this list for good reason. Andy struggles to adjust to her drastically new life between two homes while her parents undergo a bitter separation. Honest and true-to-life, Andy’s story shows that dealing with divorce is never easy.

●     Red Leaves by Sita Brahmachari: In this beautiful depiction of modern, multicultural Britain, Brahmachari’s characters might come from vastly different backgrounds but are united by one common theme - they all feel they have been abandoned by someone they love.

●     Step by Wicked Step by Anne Fine: On a school trip, five students go off together and discover they all have something in common: they all have divorced parents, each with a unique story to tell. This book highlights the importance of talking openly with peers about divorce and finding community amidst life’s challenges.  


Experienced Family Law Solicitors in Torquay

From cohabitation disputes to child arrangements, divorce is never straightforward. That’s why, if you’re based in Torquay, you should talk to our team here at Almy & Thomas. Our divorce lawyers are profoundly experienced in giving you the divorce support you need, calmly guiding you through this period. Get in touch with us for more information. 

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