Missing May (Scholastic Gold)

This poignant Newbery Medal winner explores the raw landscape of grief through the eyes of young Summer, who, along with her Uncle Ob, is struggling to find a way forward after the sudden death of her beloved Aunt May. Cynthia Rylant handles the heavy subject of loss with remarkable grace, creating a narrative that is both achingly sad and ultimately hopeful, validating the complex emotions a child experiences after a profound loss. The story thoughtfully examines how a family unit can fracture under the weight of sorrow, and the quiet, desperate search for a sign that it's possible to heal.

What makes this novel particularly distinctive is its gentle, lyrical prose and its honest portrayal of a child's navigation through adult grief, making it an exceptional tool for opening conversations about mourning and resilience. Young readers who have experienced loss themselves, or those developing empathy for others going through difficult times, will find immense comfort and recognition in Summer's journey. The story ultimately serves as a tender reminder that love persists beyond loss, and that healing often begins with a single, shared moment of hope.