The Empty Chair

When a friend dies, the classroom can suddenly feel very different.

The Empty Chair is a compassionate children’s grief book designed to help young readers understand and cope with the death of a friend. Through a gentle story and supportive themes, this book helps children process the confusing feelings that can follow loss.

Told through the eyes of Cleo, a young girl whose friend Leo suddenly dies, the story explores how grief can show up in school, friendships and everyday moments.

The Empty Chair gently explores:

• The sadness and confusion after losing a friend
• Big feelings like anger, worry and guilt
• Why grief can feel different for everyone
• The experience of returning to school after loss
• How memories help keep someone special close

Includes Gentle Memory and Grief Support Ideas for Children

At the heart of the story is the idea that even when someone is gone, the love and memories they leave behind can help fill the spaces that feel empty.

Children will also learn:

• That there is no “right” way to grieve
• That feelings can change from day to day
• That talking about someone who died can help
• That remembering someone keeps their story alive

This makes the book ideal for:

• Parents supporting a grieving child
• Primary schools and teachers
• School counsellors and pastoral staff
• Child therapists and psychologists
• Bereavement support groups
• Children coping with the loss of a friend or classmate

The Empty Chair offers reassurance, understanding and hope. Even when someone is no longer sitting beside us, their love and the memories we share can remain part of our story.