Families who loved My Pig Amarillo by Satomi Ichikawa 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 a child is experiencing the confusion and heartache of a pet that has gone missing or passed away. It is particularly helpful for children who need a physical or creative outlet for their grief, rather than just talking about it. Pablito lives in rural Guatemala and loves his little pig, Amarillo. When Amarillo disappears, Pablito moves through stages of denial and searching before finding a beautiful way to process his loss. The story explores themes of hope, cultural tradition, and the enduring nature of love. While the loss is sad, the book focuses on the healing power of memory and the Guatemalan tradition of flying kites to communicate with spirits. It is a gentle, visually stunning choice for children aged 4 to 8 who are learning how to say goodbye to a loved one while keeping their memory alive.