When a young person dies by suicide, it’s a tragedy that reverberates through families, schools, and communities. If you’re looking for a book to help grieving teens, or to open a dialogue about suicide with young people, here are some of the best.
The books on this list tackle the subject of suicide directly, or explore its effects on those left behind. Some are fiction, while others are based on true stories. All of them offer hope and a way forward after loss.
1. “The Last Time We Say Goodbye” by Cynthia Hand
2. “I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives” by Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Ganda
3. “All the Bright Places” by Jennifer Niven
4. “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green
5. “Speak” by Laurie Halse Anderson
6. “Go Ask Alice” by Anonymous
7. “Robopocalypse” by Daniel H. Wilson
8. “Suicide Notes” by Michael Thomas Ford
9. “Before I Die” by Jenny Downham
10. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky
If you know a young person who is struggling, or if you’re struggling yourself, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free, confidential support 24/7. You can call 1-800-273-8255, or chat online at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.