Michael Rosen's Sad Book

By Michael Rosen, Quentin Blake (illustrator),

Book cover of Michael Rosen's Sad Book

Book description

A heartbreakingly honest account of a father's grief for his son from the illustrious pairing of two former Children's Laureates.

Very occasionally the term non-fiction has to stretch itself to accommodate a book that fits into no category at all. Michael Rosen's Sad Book is such a book. It chronicles…

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Why read it?

1 author picked Michael Rosen's Sad Book as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

The author’s grief after the loss of his teenage son is beautifully realised in both the words and the fabulous illustrations by Quentin Blake. This book eloquently describes the invisible symptoms of depression that I know from experience can be incredibly difficult to explain, such as how a big smile can hide deep, rotten anguish; and how said anguish can pervade every part of your everyday life, how unfair life can be. 

The book is very real and earnest but ultimately hopeful. Rosen explains in simple detail how he is able to keep going, despite the sorrow inside of him.…

Want books like Michael Rosen's Sad Book?

Our community of 10,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Michael Rosen's Sad Book.

Browse books like Michael Rosen's Sad Book

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in emotions, anxiety, and depression?

10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about emotions, anxiety, and depression.

Emotions Explore 150 books about emotions
Anxiety Explore 187 books about anxiety
Depression Explore 87 books about depression