10 Great Books About Single-Parent Families

Horton Hatches the Egg, by Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss is a genius when it comes to children’s books and Horton Hatches the Egg is no exception. The story of an egg being abandoned by its mother and Horton, an elephant, taking over its care is heartwarming, lovely, and a fun story to read to your little one to remind them of all the love you have for them, even if there’s only one of you around. Everybody has somebody in this sweet story, and it’s a subtle way to instill the lesson in your kid.

Darth Vader and Son, by Jeffrey Brown
Most young kids recognize Darth Vader, but they don’t know him as a single father trying to take care of Luke. A fun spin on the Star Wars saga, Darth Vader and Son is a must for any kid who’s a fan of the epic series and needs a reminder that single dads can do it all, too.

Dear Mr. Henshaw, by Beverly Cleary
If you have older kids who don’t need a hand-holding book about divorce or single parents, try picking up a copy of Dear Mr. Henshaw. This Beverly Cleary classic focuses on the relationship between a boy, Leigh, and his favorite author, but it also represents single parent families, as Leigh’s parents have recently split and his father is not around. Leigh’s character may have similarities to your own child, and there’s nothing better than feeling connected to a book that it makes you feel understood.

Amber Brown is Not a Crayon, by Paula Danziger
The Amber Brown series was one of my favorites as a kid, especially because Amber’s parents are divorced and her dad lives abroad. It is a delightful series full of over-the-top, but believable characters, and is seriously heart-warming. Your kids will fall in love with Amber Brown and recognize some of her own thoughts and opinions on having separated parents and a father who’s not around.

You Are My Wish Come True, by Marianne Richmond
An adorable bear asks his mama about how much she wanted him before he was born, and You Are My Wish Come True begins. It will make you cry, especially as a single parent, and will teach even the tiniest ones that no matter what they think, they were always wanted, always wished for, and always prayed for. Another subtle choice for kids who don’t need a book with a specific single parent situation, but it’s beautiful all the same.

I Love You Like Crazy Cakes, by Rose A. Lewis and Jane Dyer
Sometimes having a single parent makes a kid feel less than, but not with I Love You Like Crazy Cakes. The story is about a woman going to China to adopt her baby, and it is a great story that will prove to your children how much joy they bring you, no matter what your family dynamic looks like.

Was It the Chocolate Pudding?: A Story for Little Kids About Divorce, by Sandra Levins and Bryan Langdo
For kids who need a more honest and clinical answer to why they live with one parent, Was it the Chocolate Pudding? could be the perfect book. It explains everything from custody battles to divorce in age-appropriate language, and addresses any fears your kiddo might have about who’s to blame for the change in their family.

The Invisible String, by Patrice Karst
I think every parent should read their child this story, but especially if you’re a single parent. The Invisible String is perfect for any child facing separation, and gives children the metaphor of an invisible string connecting them to the people they love. With a single mom leading the story, it’s incredibly sweet and comforting, and is also a great choice if your child has suffered the loss of a parent.

Ask Me, by Bernard Waber and Suzy Lee
One of my favorite picture books is Ask Me, a story of a little girl simply asking her father questions and commenting on the world. The single father dynamic isn’t often written about, but this cute book reminds little ones that their dads are there for them, no matter what.

The Kissing Hand, by Audrey Penn, Ruth E. Harper, and Nancy M. Leak
Mrs. Raccoon has to reassure her little one that he’s going to be okay when he’s away from her, but it turns out she needs some reassurance, too. The Kissing Hand is a great representation of a single parent family and will make your little one realize that you miss them just as much as they miss you.
What are your favorite books about single parent families?