During scary times in the world, books often help kids to process their “new normal.” Whether it’s a cancer diagnosis, the loss of a parent or sibling, or any other life-changing event, you can probably find a book that will help you and your child start a conversation about it together. But when COVID-19 came around, there really wasn’t any children’s literature to help get these conversations going!

That’s why the Emory Global Health Institute ran a children’s e-book competition about the pandemic.

If you haven’t read the winning stories yet, give them a try! They are all available for free on Emory’s website. Find the winning titles and summaries below!

COVID-19 Helpers by Beth Bacon

“In “COVID-19 Helpers,” Seattle-based author and illustrator Beth Bacon and Kary Lee describe how people from all walks of life are helping to fight the virus. In age-appropriate language and using beautiful illustrations, Bacon and Lee describe what COVID-19 is, how it is transmitted and all of the people who are working to keep everyone safe. The key message of the book is that we can all help fight COVID-19, including children.”

Bray Bray Conquers the Coronavirus by Ashley Maxie-Moreman

“Author Maxie-Moreman felt COVID-19 was an especially important and appropriate topic for the series as data is showing that African Americans are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 compared to other racial and ethnic groups.”

Together: Living Life During COVID-19 by Kevin Poplawski

“In ‘Together: Living Life During COVID-19,’ a young girl named Olivia learns what the coronavirus is, how to protect herself and others from catching it, and why her life changed so dramatically seemingly overnight. It addresses both the emotions children may be feeling as well as provides useful information about the virus and the disease it causes.”

We’re Going to be OK by Ebony Jade Hilton

“‘We’re Going to be OK,’ tells the story of Parker, who wakes up one morning and learns that he is staying home from school and his parents are staying home from work because of the coronavirus. Written by two physicians who are also children’s book authors, ‘We’re Going to be OK’ teaches children about COVID-19 and ways to protect themselves.”

How are you talking to your kids about COVID-19? Let me know in the comments below!