The Great Hamster Massacre

Reach for this book when your child is begging for a pet or when they have just experienced the confusing, sometimes messy reality of losing one. This story provides a unique space to process grief through the lens of dark humor and mystery, making a difficult topic approachable rather than overwhelming. It follows Anna and Tom, who finally convince their parents to let them have hamsters, only to find their new pets dead the next morning. What follows is a 'who-dunnit' investigation that mirrors how children actually process shock and sadness: with a mix of intense seriousness and accidental comedy. It is a brilliant choice for kids aged 7 to 10 who appreciate a dry, British wit and need to see that it is okay to feel a variety of emotions, including anger and curiosity, when a pet passes away.