Families who loved A Terrible Thing Happened: A Story for Children Who Have Witnessed Violence or Trauma by Margaret M. Holmes often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child has witnessed something frightening or overwhelming and you notice changes in their behavior, such as irritability, nightmares, or withdrawal. It is a vital tool for families navigating the aftermath of community violence, domestic incidents, or any traumatic event that a child cannot yet put into words. The story follows Sherman, a young raccoon who sees something 'terrible' and tries to ignore it, only to find that the memory makes him feel sick and angry. This gentle, therapeutic story is appropriate for children ages 4 to 8. It validates the physical and emotional toll of trauma while offering a clear, hopeful path toward healing through talking with a trusted adult. Parents choose this book because it provides a safe, metaphorical space to begin a difficult conversation without requiring the child to describe the specific event before they are ready.
