Bedtime Story asks the timeless question: how can we talk to children about loss in ways that leaves them loving life? When Chloe Hooper’s partner fell seriously ill, she went on a quest through children’s literature for the book that could prepare their young sons for the death of a loved one. The acclaimed, best-selling author of The Tall Man and The Arsonist writes of her discoveries in a truly magical work rich with terrors and enchantments. 

Let me tell you a story....

When Chloe Hooper’s partner is diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer, they have to find a way to tell their two young sons. Can the news be broken as a bedtime tale? What practical lessons does children’s literature – with its innocent orphans and evil adults, magic, monsters and anthropomorphic animals – teach about grief and resilience in real life?  

As Hooper discovers, 'the right words are an incantation, a spell of hope for the future'. From the Brothers Grimm to Frances Hodgson Burnett and Tolkien and Dahl – all of whom suffered childhood bereavements – Hooper follows the breadcrumbs of the world’s favourite authors, searching for the deep wisdom in their books and lives.  

In an age of worldwide uncertainty, here is a profound and moving exploration of the dark and light of storytelling.