Sad Books That Will Make You Cry
If you have known me for a while, you know that when I read books, I am not usually a crier. That is Kirsten’s domain! These books are the exception to that rule. Sometimes you need a good cry, and every book on this list will do just that.
Not all books make me cry. I need to feel a strong emotional connection to the characters and a believable plot. While the nonfiction picks are clearly heartwrenching, it takes real talent to write a romance novel that will bring you to tears; yet, you are still glad you read it.
There are times when I feel gloomy or sad, and I need to release some emotional anguish. I often turn to books when I feel this way. I like to connect with stories that help give my own life and hardships perspective, but still allow me to feel deeply invested in the tale.
These are not necessarily books about grief, either. These are rich stories unlike any others, which makes them even more powerful. Grab some tissue and cuddle up because we have 21 books that will make you cry.
The Best Books That Will Make You Cry
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
Best Fiction Book to Make You Cry
The One Hundred Years of Lenni Margot- Jump to Section
Best Historical Fiction Book to Make You Cry
Stars in an Italian Sky by Jill Santopolo- Jump to Section
Best Romance Book to Make You Cry
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes- Jump to Section
Best Nonfiction Book to Make You Cry
Night by Elie Wiesel- Jump to Section
Best YA Book to Make You Cry
Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins- Jump to Section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Contemporary Fiction Books That Will Make You Cry
The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot
Author: Marianne Cronin
Year: 2021
Genre: Fiction
More info: April 2026 Beyond the Bookends Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This is the story of 17-year-old Lenni, who has terminal cancer, and her art partner, 83-year-old heart patient Margot. They connect at the end of Lenni’s life in the hospital art therapy room where they decided to paint a picture for every year of their combined 100 years.
Trigger Warnings
Death, Terminal Illness
Why Kirsten loves it
GET READY TO UGLY CRY. This book wrecked me. While painting their picture, we get to learn about their lives before their illnesses and witness an incredible bond form. The ripple effects of their bond and friendship took my breath away numerous times. Truly one of the best books I’ve read in a long time.
Find this book in: Novels About Grief / Books with Older Protagonists
Dear Edward
Author: Ann Napolitano
Year: 2020
Genre: Fiction
More info: January 2020 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This compelling story is about a boy who survives a plane crash within the first few pages of the book. However, the book moves back and forth between the plane flight and the aftermath, so you get to know the people on the flight and their stories.
It’s a heartbreaking tale that you won’t soon forget. While I like it, I don’t recommend reading it while travelling.
Why Jackie loves it
The minute I read the first page, I was immediately captured. I love the way this book was written.
Find this book in: Plane Crash Novels / Best Read With Jenna Books / Read with Jenna Book Club List 2020
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
Author: Rebecca Serle
Year: 2020
Genre: Fiction
More info: March 2020 GMA Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Dannie is an ambitious lawyer with a plan. She has her life planned out until she falls asleep and spends one hour in the future. Nothing is familiar- not her house, the ring on her finger, or the man by her side. When she wakes, she cannot get the images out of her head.
Trigger Warnings
Cancer, Grief
Why Jackie loves it
What a refreshing contemporary fiction book about the power of love and friendship. I sat down and read this book in one sitting easily. It is captivating from the first sentence and had me until the last page. I loved this time travel book, it was unexpected, unconventional, and a delight to read. It would also be a great one for book clubs! There is lots to discuss in this one.
Find this book in: Friendship Books / Contemporary Fiction Novels / Time Travel Books / GMA Book Club List 2020 / Books With Numbers in the Title
A Man Called Ove
Author: Fredrik Backman
Year: 2014
Genre: Fiction
More info: A recent Motion Picture Called A Man Called Otto Starring Tom Hanks
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Ove is mourning the loss of his wife and is consumed with grief. He decided to end his life. His attempts are foiled by mishaps and interruptions from his new neighbors. While this sounds like a depressing book, I laughed out loud while reading it.
Mr. Backman has a beautiful way of capturing the reader’s interest with wonderful characters who find themselves in hilarious situations. But, this story is so much more than that. As it progresses, Ove is able to have a profound impact on the life of everyone he meets, and at its heart, it is a book about friendship.
But don’t let the description throw you off. At its heart, this is one of the best feel-good books and one of my all-time favorite books! If you have not read it, you should consider it for your book club.
Trigger Warnings
Attempted Suicide
Why Jackie loves it
The love and friendships that develop in this book are almost unmatched, in my opinion. Backman is a master storyteller.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a book that allowed me to laugh and cry equally. I loved Ove and his second chance at living life.
Find this book in: Ultimate List of Contemporary Fiction / Books About Friendship / Jackie’s Top 10 All-Time Favorite Books / Novels About Grief
Find More Books Like This in: Books Like A Man Called Ove
Plot
The story features a floating book apothecary whose owner can meet you and give you a story meant for your soul. When he needs to help his own soul, he sets his boat adrift on the Seine to see where it will take him.
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved every minute of this lovely contemporary fiction book. I read it before Jackie and am so glad that I was the one to recommend this book to her. The entire premise of this book is delightful.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of my favorite books set in Paris and also one of my favorite books ever. The idea of a literary apothecary plays a big part in what Beyond the Bookends aims to do- Match people with books!
Find this book in: Books Set in Paris / Books Set in France / Ultimate List of 35+ Feel-Good Books / The Ultimate List of Books About Books / Best Books in Translation / Books About Bookstores
Historical Fiction Sad Books That Will Make You Cry
Stars in an Italian Sky
Author: Jill Santopolo
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Where do I even start with this book? I loved it so much. In Genoa Italy, in 1946 Vincenzo and Giovanna fell in love. But, they belong to two different worlds. She is the daughter of a tailor and she is almost royalty.
In 2017, Cassandra and Luca are in love. When Luca asks Cassandra’s grandmother to be a model for his new painting, with his grandfather, the past and its secrets are revealed.
I cannot say enough about this book that is part contemporary fiction and part historical fiction. It had me absolutely bawling by the end, ugly crying, and I LOVED it. The ending was perfect, fitting, and cathartic.
This is a perfect pick for books set in Italy and a must for our ultimate beach reads 2023 post. If you love second chance romance books, this is one of the best there is.
Why Kirsten loves it
I could not wait to read this book because I was looking for a book set in Italy. Santapolo never fails to write fantastic books with compelling characters and plotlines that will bring you to tears.
Why Jackie loves it
I adored this book and while books usually don’t make me cry, this one had me ugly crying. I adored every minute of this book- the characters, the plot, and how the story came together were just what I needed.
Find this book in: Books Set in Italy / Ultimate Beach Reads 2023 / Second Chance Romance Books
The Women
Author: Kristin Hannah
Year: 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: #1 New York Times Bestseller, #1 bestseller on USA Today, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times
Narrated by Audie Award Winner Julia Whelan
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:18+
Plot
In this emotional historical fiction, Hannah has transported readers to the frontlines of the Vietnam War. In 1965, after Frankie makes a rash decision to enlist as a war nurse to make her family proud, she finds herself completely unprepared for what awaits her in Vietnam.
Hannah gives us a searing tale of life as a nurse during and after the war, as Frankie learns how to nurse, bonds with her fellow medical staff, and even falls in love during wartime.
The book’s second half explores what it was like to return home to a country divided over whether the war should even be fought. It was shocking to see how people treated returning vets, and how they refused to acknowledge that women were in ‘nam.
Hannah’s portrayal of PTSD had me gasping and feeling deeply for the characters within the story – particularly Frankie. This fast-paced story had my heart thumping throughout. It did get quite heavy at times and I had to have a lighter book on hand for breaks. Once again, Hannah has delivered a five-star book. #gifted by Macmillan Audio
Trigger Warnings
War, PTSD, Alcohol Abuse, grief
Why Jackie loves it
The ending had me in tears of happiness, though tears of frustration, anger, and sadness also flowed at various times while I read this book. Even though the book deals with complex family issues and alcoholism, Hannah wrote these into the story seamlessly. It did not feel contrived to add drama to the plotlines.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love historical fiction and Kirstin Hannah never fails to deliver that. This book felt like her most powerful novel yet. I had an emotional investment in the characters and called Jackie numerous times while I was reading begging her to tell me the ending.
Find this book in: Books That Make You Cry / The Women Book Club Questions / Best Historical Fiction 2024 / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / The Best Books of 2024 / Books Set in the 1960s
The Kite Runner
Author: Khaled Hosseini
Year: 2004
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: #1 New York Times Bestselling Book
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The story of the friendship between a wealthy boy and his servant is one filled with betrayal, tragedy, and heartbreak.
Told against the background of Afghanistan’s destruction and the war, this sweeping tale is a must-read.
Trigger Warnings
Sexual Assault, Child Abuse, War
Why Jackie loves it
This coming-of-age book set in the 70s in Afghanistan is one of the most emotional books I’ve ever read. I sobbed for a full 30 minutes after the last chapter.
Find this book in: Books Set in the 70s / Best Queen Camilla Book Club Books / Novels About Trauma
The Light Between Oceans
Author: M. L. Stedman
Year: 2012
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
A lighthouse keeper and his wife have gotten used to the lonely, isolated life of maintaining the lighthouse on a faraway island. But they are yearning for a baby to keep them company.
When one washes ashore, they quickly claim the child as their own without reporting it to the authorities. On a rare outing in town 2 years later, they bring their daughter along and realize the impact of what they have done.
Why Jackie loves it
This was a heartbreaking but beautiful read and the movie adaptation was excellent as well.
Find this book in: 1920s Novels / Books about Mothers / Sad Books / Isolation Books
Romance Books That Make You Cry
Me Before You
Author: Jojo Moyes
Year: 2012
Genre: Romance
More info: Me Before You #1, New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
When a young man becomes paralyzed, his parents hire a young woman to be his companion. As love blooms, and she tries to convince him that life is still worth living, the reader questions what they would sacrifice to make a loved one happy. This novel about grief deals with grieving before the person has passed.
Trigger Warnings
Assisted Suicide
Why Jackie loves it
Me Before You has quickly become a classic story – and a movie to boot. But beware! This is one of the grumpy sunshine romance books that will emotionally wreck you that you don’t want to read in public!
Find this book in: Grumpy Sunshine Trope Books /Sad Books That Will Make You Cry / Romance Novels About Grief
Always, in December
Author: Emily Stone
Year: 2021
Genre: Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This tear-jerking story blew me away. It was a romance story for the first 30% of the book, but then it became something much deeper.
Josie mails a letter to her deceased parents every Christmas, but this Christmas she accidentally hits a stranger named Max with her bike on the way to the post box.
As she explores the holiday season with Max her feelings start to grow, but when he leaves unexpectedly, she’s left to deal with the aftermath of the impact he had on her heart. But fate isn’t done with their story yet as they bump into each other throughout the year.
Why Kirsten loves it
Probably my favorite Christmas romance book of 2021, this one is a tear-jerker for sure. I sobbed for the entire last 10% of the book and it will most likely, emotionally wreck you. This book is a testament to the healing power of love and the kind of impact each of us can make on each other.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but if you are looking for a Christmas book that ends with a bow and smile, you may want to look elsewhere. Despite this, we needed to include this on our list of best holiday books. #gifted by
Find this book in: Best British Books / Best Holiday Books / Best Christmas Books Of All Time / Best Christmas Romance Books / Christmas Book Club Books / Christmas Novels for 2021 / Emily Stone Books Ranked /Books That Will Make You Cry
The Time Traveler’s Wife
Year: 2003
Genre: Time Travel Fiction
More info: 2009 Movie starring Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:16+
Plot
Clare and Henry have an unusual love story. They’ve known each other since Clare was six and Henry was thirty-six but were married when Clare was twenty-three and Henry was thirty-one. Henry is an adventurous librarian who inadvertently travels through time.
He never knows where he will turn up and when he will disappear. He knows that he will travel suddenly and without warning. Will Clare and Henry be able to determine what causes the time jumps or is Henry destined to spend the rest of his life wondering and worrying?
Trigger Warnings
Sudden Death
Why Kirsten loves it
I adore how this story explores very real challenges that any couple faces. With the added time travel element, it becomes an unforgettable pick from our list of romance books.
Why Jackie loves it
The way Clare and Henry fight for their love shows a deep connection between the two that is unmatched.
Find this book in: Best Time Travel Books / Time Travel Romance Books / Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Best Romance Novels of All Time / Nonlinear Narrative Novels / Books About Librarians
Nonfiction Sad Books That Will Make You Cry
Night
Author: Elie Wiesel
Year: 1958
Genre: Memoir
More info: January 2006 Oprah Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This is a must-read non-fiction book about the Holocaust by the Nobel Peace Prize winner. It is a short but compelling book that will change you and your view of the Holocaust. It’s Elie Wiesel’s account of what happened to him when he was a prisoner at the Nazi death camps.
Trigger Warnings
Death, Antisemitism, Genocide
Why Kirsten loves it
Weisel’s harrowing story can be difficult to read at times, but it is truly essential reading. I read this story as a girl and I continue to think about it all the time. It is probably the most impactful Holocaust autobiography I have ever read.
Why Jackie loves it
I have a personal story about this book. My husband’s grandmother grew up in the same town as Elie Wiesel. She knew both him and his wife. This was the first thing that she told me when I met her (My husband’s name is also Elie, but this is purely coincidental).
Find this book in: Books About the Holocaust / Best Nonfiction Books / Best Celebrity Book Club Books / Best Oprah’s Book Club Books / Best Books in Translation
From Scratch
Author: Tembi Locke
Year: 2019
Genre: Nonfiction
More info: May 2019 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I knew what this book was about before reading it and I was still not prepared for the heartbreak and beauty within the pages. This memoir is truly a love letter to Tembi’s husband who died from cancer. This is an incredibly sad book that had me in tears.
The descriptions of the food, the people, and the love she had for her husband are unlike anything that I have read before. This is a five-star book about grief if you can read through heartache. It’s one of the Netflix book adaptations I’m planning on watching.
Trigger Warnings
Death of a Spouse, Grief
Why Jackie loves it
This is a five-star book about grief if you can read through heartache. This is beautifully written and although it is sad, the authors journey to finding herself again is inspirational.
Find this book in: Books Set in Italy / Best Netflix Book Adaptations / Best Reese Witherspoon Books / Books About Food / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2019 / Best Nonfiction Books / Nonfiction Travel Books
The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11
Author: Garrett M. Graff
Year: 2019
Genre: Nonfiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Wow. It is hard to put the power of this book into words. Graff crafted the day of 9/11 from hour to hour and I had a hard time listening to it.  The 45-person full-cast audiobook recreates the day with heart-stopping detail.
Like everyone, I remember exactly where I was on that day. Hearing the oral history told by first responders, witnesses, survivors, friends, and families is unlike anything I have ever seen and should be required for every student in the country. This is one of the best non-fiction books I have ever read and while it is a sad book, it is a must-read.
Why Kirsten loves it
This book is the perfect example of how full-cast audiobooks can transform a book into something greater than the sum of the individual parts.
Find this book in: Plane Books / Books to Make You Cry / Full Cast Audiobooks / Best Nonfiction Books
I’m Glad My Mom Died
Author: Jennette McCurdy
Year: 2022
Genre: Memoir
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Jeanette Mccurdy, star of the shows iCarly and Sam and Cat, has written her heartbreaking memoir. Forced into acting at 6 years old by a mentally ill and unstable mother, Jeanette lived her life trying to make her mother happy. The result was an eating disorder, addiction, and abuse.
Trigger Warnings
Eating disorders, Child abuse, Emotional abuse
Why Jackie loves it
I listened to this coming-of-age book and found it hard to put down but also extremely difficult to listen to at times because it is such a sad book.
Adaptation
Jennifer Aniston is on board to produce and star in the adaptation of McCurdy’s memoir. McCurdy will co-produce and she is writing the script with Ari Katcher for Apple Tv.
Find this book in: Coming-of-age Books for Adults / Books About Mental Illness / Books that Will Make You Cry / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Best Nonfiction Books / Books Becoming Movies / The Best Audiobooks of All Time
Middle Grade/ YA Books That Will Make You Cry
Sunrise on the Reaping
Author: Suzanne Collins
Year: 2025
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
More info: Prequel to the Hunger Games
Age Range: 12+
Plot
This prequel to The Hunger Games is Haymitch’s story. It is the 50th annual Hunger Games, and in honor of the quarter quell, twice as many tributes will be selected. Haymitch just wants to make it through the day and be with the girl he loves, but instead, he is sent to the Capitol.
This is where Haymitch meets Effie and so many more characters from Catching Fire. There were glimpses of Hamitch’s games, and this heartbreaking novel puts it all front and center
Why Jackie loves it
This prequel to The Hunger Games gave me perspective on why Haymitch is the way he is- Lonely, miserable, drunk, and alone. If you thought the deaths in the previous Hunger Games books were sad, then be prepared to sob. I have a new understanding of President Snow and everything Haymitch ever said to Katniss about the Capitol and how to win the games. This was the book I needed to put the series into perspective for me.
Find this book in: Best Beach Reads 2025 / Books That Will Make You Cry
Wonder
Author: R.J. Palacio
Year: 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Age: 9 – 12
More info: Wonder #1, New York Times Bestseller
Plot
August Pullman is a boy with an extraordinary facial difference. He has been homeschooled his entire life and is starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep. This book for 11-year-olds is amazing and has a lesson about love and acceptance that everyone needs to read.
Trigger Warnings
Bullying
Why Jackie loves it
This is a must-read story for middle schoolers. It is an amazing book about embracing differences, kindness, and being yourself. However, it would also be a wonderful read-aloud book for a younger audience.
Find this book in: Realistic Fiction Books / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Books that Will Make You Cry / Chapter Books to Read Aloud / Family Audiobooks / School Books
The War That Saved My Life
Author: Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Year: 2015
Genre: Historical Fiction
Age: 9+
More info: The War That Saved My Life #1, Newbery Honor Book, Winner of the Schneider Family Book Award
Plot
Ada is a 10-year-old girl who lives in a one-room world gazing at the world from one window. She was born with a club foot and teaches herself to walk in secret. When the children who lived in London were evacuated to the country at the start of WW2, Ada escapes her abusive mother and leaves London with her little brother.
Ada thrives in the countryside on Susan’s farm and watching her grow is a pleasure. As Susan bonds with Ada and her brother, she starts to wonder what will happen when she returns to London.
Trigger Warnings
War, Child Abuse
Why Jackie loves it
I read this realistic fiction book in a few hours and immediately ordered the sequel The War I Finally Won. It is a story of love and survival in the face of overwhelming obstacles that is emotionally crafted and brilliantly written.
Find this book in: WWII Books for Kids / Coming-of-Age Books for Teens / Best Books for 9-year-olds / Newbery Award Winners
The One and Only Ivan
Author: Katherine Applegate
Year: 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Age: 8 – 10
More info: One and Only Ivan #1
Plot
Based on the true story of Ivan, a gorilla trapped in a shopping mall, this feel-good story is one of the best family audiobooks for any road trip.
Stella, a young girl gets Ivan to start painting again and she realizes how lonely he is. Bob, a stray dog, works to help Ivan and Ruby, a baby elephant, garner the attention they need to be sent to a better home.
Trigger Warnings
Animal Cruelty
Why Jackie loves it
This book will touch your heart. Even though there are sad parts in this book, the ending will make it worthwhile. This is one of the best animal fiction books for middle grade and adults.
Find this book in: Books for 9-year-olds / Zoo Books / Family Audiobooks / Animal Novels / Audiobooks for Kids / Newbery Award Winners / Best Middle Grade Fiction
Far From the Tree
Author: Robin Benway
Year: 2017
Genre: YA Fiction
More info: National Book Award
Age Range: 13+
Plot
This wonderful story is about Grace who was adopted at birth. When she finds herself pregnant, she puts her daughter up for adoption.
This prompts her to look for her biological mother. What she finds are two siblings that she never knew about. This is an amazing story told from multiple points of view. Even though I included it in books that make you cry, you will love every moment.
Why Kirsten loves it
This novel for tweens is the winner of the National Book Award for good reason. I adored this middle-grade fiction book. I spent half of it crying and the other half smiling.
Find this book in: Coming-of-age Books for Teens / Best Books for 13-year-olds / Feel-good Books / Books to Make You Cry / Fun Books for Teens/ Best Books About Siblings
Expert Tip
Sometimes you need a good cry. It feels good to get it all out! But that does not mean you can read these books every day. So, if you are picking a book off this list, you want to make sure that you are going to love it, tears and all.
- Read a description of each book. Kirsten and I have read all of these. We gave not only descriptions, but trigger warnings as well. Some of the books may deal with issues too sensitive for some people to read, and we understand that.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some sad books that will make me cry?
Stars in an Italian Sky by Jill Santopolo had me crying UGLY tears- I mean sobbing, nose blowing, and the whole bit. It is a beautiful story. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley also had me in tears. It is a middle-grade book that has more serious content warnings,
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Epilogue
Which of these books that make you cry is your favorite?
