Kids Book About School Shootings, A (A Kids Book)
A Kids Book About Series
What’s inside...
Written by Columbine survivor Crystal Woodman Miller, this straightforward nonfiction title in the A Kids Book About series helps children understand what school shootings are, why they happen, and how kids can process the complex emotions these tragedies bring up. Using accessible language and bold text-only pages, the book reassures readers that adults are working hard to keep them safe, while also offering practical ways to talk about fear, grief, and hope.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Crystal Woodman Miller (Narrator)
Discussion points
Which part of the book felt most important to you and why?
How do you feel during school safety drills?
What are some ways we can help make our school kinder and safer?
Who are the trusted adults you can talk to if you feel scared?
Tip: Role play these questions
Share your own feelings first to model openness.
Create a family safety plan together after reading.
Use drawing or role-play to help younger kids express emotions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Facing fears with honesty builds courage.
Explanation: The author names scary topics directly, then shows ways to cope.
Real-World Application: Kids can talk openly about any fear and seek help.
Example Lesson: Emotions are valid and shareable.
Explanation: Readers are invited to label feelings and speak them aloud.
Real-World Application: Children learn to communicate emotions instead of bottling them up.
Example Lesson: Everyone plays a role in community safety.
Explanation: Examples include reporting concerns and practicing kindness.
Real-World Application: Kids see that small actions—welcoming a new student, telling a teacher—matter.
Example Lesson: Hope can follow tragedy.
Explanation: Crystal’s life after Columbine models resilience and advocacy.
Real-World Application: Children understand that tough experiences don’t define their future.