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Loneliness is a normal human emotion, one we're all likely to experience at some point in our lives. For children, stories can be a powerful way to explore and understand feelings.
Through relatable characters and meaningful adventures, books provide a safe space for young readers to see themselves and others who might feel the same way. Our team at Marmalade HQ have curated a list of 10 children's books that thoughtfully address the theme of loneliness.
These stories inspire connection, kindness, and hope—perfect for starting important conversations with the little ones in your life.
Lost and Found - Oliver Jeffers
A wonderful story about the meaning of loneliness and the importance of friendship.
One day a penguin arrives on a boy’s door step. The boy decides the penguin must be lost and tries to return him. But no one seems to be missing a penguin. So the boy decides to take the penguin home himself, and they set out in his rowing boat on a journey to the South Pole. But when they get there, the boy discovers that maybe home wasn’t what the penguin was looking for after all…
Paddington - Michael Bond
We couldn't leave out Paddington - after all, it is the inspiration behind our charity's name - Marmalade Trust! As a child, our founder Amy's teddy bear was her ‘buddy’ who came along and kept her company. We believe a teddy bear is your first friend, the one you tell all your stories and worries to. We also admire the qualities of Paddington Bear: friendly, proactive and who has a smile and a hello for everyone. These are the pillars on which the charity is built (as well as Paddington and Amy’s fondness for getting people together over food).
When I'm feeling lonely - Trace Moroney
From author Trace Moroney's series 'When I'm feeling', this book explores lots of things can make us feel lonely, and is particularly aimed at younger kids. Whilst loneliness isn't a nice feeling, the story is a helpful reminder that everyone feels that way sometimes!
The Storm Whale - Benji Davies
This is the story of a lonely little boy, a whale washed up on a beach and a friendship that will change both their lives forever. An evocative and sensitive tale that will allow adults and children to talk openly about feeling lonely and saying goodbye to a loved one.
Beegu - Alexis Deacon
Beegu is from another world and somehow gets lost on Earth. Lonely and confused, she wanders off to a nearby city to find some friends. But the only friendly people she comes across are the children, while the big Earth creatures just don’t seem to understand. Deacon’s simple text and soft illustrations cleverly convey a child’s feelings of uncertainty and confusion when faced with new surroundings. This is a heart-warming and satisfying tale that is certain to provide comfort to young children.
The Invisible Boy - Trudy Ludwig
From esteemed author and speaker Trudy Ludwig, this gentle story shows how small acts of kindness can help children feel included and allow them to flourish. Any parent, teacher, or counsellor looking for material that sensitively addresses the needs of quieter children will find The Invisible Boy a valuable and important resource.
Say Hello - Jack Foreman
With only a few words per double page spread, we see a lonely dog looking for a friend. Soon he is accepted by a group of children playing soccer and a similar tale begins with a lonely boy. The boy voices his thoughts about what it is like to feel left out. When the dog's ball rolls over to him, the group of children, "say hello!" A deceptively simple book with a big message.
The Lonely Christmas Tree - Chris Naylor
A lonely tree stands on the cold, frosted hillside gazing at the other trees sparkling in the village below. How it longs to be with them! Then suddenly out reaches a warm friendly hand, and with a wobble and a shake, a very jolly fellow takes the tree on a journey to a new place . where the tree will feel that it belongs once more, surrounded by old friends and new. A beautiful Christmas book with an uplifting message about overcoming loneliness and celebrating being together.
Caspian Finds a Friend - Jacqueline Veissid
Caspian lives in a lighthouse. He is lonely and wishes for a friend. In the gorgeous, dreamy illustrations we watch as Caspian writes a message and places it in a bottle. After he receives a one word reply, he and his new friend meet and share wonderful adventures. The calming, poetic text is a joy to read aloud.
Be a Friend - Salina Yoon
Dennis looks at the world differently but is lonely and misunderstood by his classmates. In the playground, Dennis kicks “an IMAGINARY ball…” and is surprised when a girl kicks it back, starting a new friendship. From the beloved author/illustrator of the Penguin and Bear series comes a heartwarming story of self-acceptance, courage, and unbreakable friendship for anyone who has ever felt "different."
Have you got suggestions to add to the list? Let us know below!
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