Top 10 recommended books on foster care
Date published
04 March 2026
At Nexus Fostering, we understand that moving into foster care can bring a mix of emotions for children and young people. Stories can be a powerful way to help children make sense of change, explore their feelings, and feel reassured that they are not alone. Books offer gentle explanations, open up important conversations, and provide comfort during times of uncertainty.
Below is a carefully selected list of books for different age groups, from young children to adults, designed to support children in care, foster carers, and professionals. Each title has been chosen to promote understanding, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
A gentle picture book following Dennis Duckling as he navigates change and small decisions in foster care. The story helps young children understand their feelings and reassures them that caring adults are there to support them. Ideal for toddlers and pre-schoolers adjusting to new environments. Teaches young children that their feelings matter and that it’s okay to ask for help during change
A comforting animal story showing how a new home can offer safety, warmth, and belonging. Helps young children adjust to unfamiliar environments with reassurance and hope. Shows children that new homes can bring safety and belonging.
Florence and her Always There Bear begin a journey into foster care when her mum becomes unwell. This reassuring story gently explains that families can look different and that love continues, even when living arrangements change. A comforting read for children experiencing transition. Explains foster care gently while emphasising love, safety, and resilience for children in transition.
Spark the dragon learns to adjust to a new home, exploring feelings of change, loss, and resilience along the way. A relatable story that encourages children to embrace new beginnings while acknowledging their emotions. Encourages children to adapt to change and build emotional resilience.
A reassuring story about learning to feel safe and build trust in a new home. Ideal for young children entering foster care. Encourages children to trust and feel secure in new environments.
A clear and child-friendly introduction to foster care, explaining how foster families provide safety, care, and support. Helps children understand everyday life in foster homes and feel less alone in their experiences. Introduces foster care positively and reassures children that they are safe and supported.
A practical guide featuring care-experienced voices, offering insight into what children need from carers and the system. Suitable for teenagers, foster carers, and professionals.
Provides practical insights into fostering from both the child's and the carer's perspectives.
A powerful novel following Astrid as she moves through multiple foster homes after her mother’s imprisonment. Explores identity, resilience, and the emotional realities of growing up in care. Explores the emotional complexity of foster care for older teens.
UK foster carer Cathy Glass shares real-life accounts of the children she has supported. The memoir highlights both the challenges of fostering and the resilience of children in care. Offers a real-life look at fostering and the impact of compassionate care.
A research-based overview of foster care practice in the UK, focusing on placement outcomes and what supports successful fostering. A valuable resource for carers and professionals. Summarises research to guide effective foster care practice.
News
04 March 2026
