With over 1.5 million copies sold, this accessible, bestselling picture book phenomenon about the unbreakable connections between loved ones has healed generations of children and adults alike. A Spanish edition (El hilo invisible by Patrice Karst and Joanne Lew-Vriethoff) and a companion workbook are also available (The Invisible String Workbook).
Parents, educators, therapists, and social workers alike have declared The Invisible String the perfect tool for coping with all kinds of separation anxiety, loss, and grief. It’s also been joyfully embraced as a year-round celebration of love–gifted at births, graduations, weddings, Valentine’s Day, and beyond. In this relatable and reassuring contemporary classic, a mother tells her two children that they’re all connected by an invisible string. “That’s impossible!” the children insist, but still they want to know more: “What kind of string?” The answer is the simple truth that binds us all: An Invisible String made of love. Even though you can’t see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart, and know that you are always connected to the ones you love. Does everybody have an Invisible String? How far does it reach? Does it ever go away? This heartwarming picture book for all ages explores questions about the intangible yet unbreakable connections between us, and opens up deeper conversations about love.
Recommended and adopted by parenting blogs, bereavement support groups, hospice centers, foster care and social service agencies, military library services, church groups, and educators, The Invisible String offers a very simple approach to overcoming loneliness, separation, or loss with an imaginative twist that children easily understand and embrace, and delivers a particularly compelling message in today’s uncertain times. This special paperback edition includes vibrant new illustrations and an introduction from the author.
Recommended by Oprah Daily!
“This book is a beautiful way to begin to try, as parents, to instill in children the impenetrable power of the heart, the energy of love, and the flow that can be felt from the grace in every moment.” —Tony Robbins
Read all the books in The Invisible String series:
The Invisible String Backpack: Your very own tool kit for school—and life!
The Invisible String Workbook: Creative Activities to Comfort, Calm, and Connect
The Invisible Leash: An Invisible String Story About the Loss of a Pet
The Invisible Web: An Invisible String Story Celebrating Love and Universal Connection
You Are Never Alone: An Invisible String Lullaby
Shira Katz –
As one who is new to the mental health field, I am constantly on the lookout for books on the topic of attachment. This is a great choice for parents to read to their children. The book stresses the idea that we all are attached to an invisible string of love from our caregivers, friends etc. The book is a light, easy and enjoyable read.
Dogmomaf –
I got it for my son to deal with some separation anxiety. It is colorful and sweet, with great message. Will note one page mentions “uncle Brian in heaven” so depending on your religious preferences or if you have even talked about death, just wanted you to be aware.
Ashley Ferguson –
As a teacher, I am always on the lookout for resources that can support my students through challenging times, and “The Invisible String” is an absolute gem. This beautifully written children’s book offers a gentle yet profound way to help kids cope with grief and loss. The story’s simple yet powerful message about the invisible connections we share with our loved ones resonates deeply with children, providing comfort and reassurance during difficult times.
What I love most about “The Invisible String” is its ability to spark meaningful conversations in the classroom about emotions, empathy, and the importance of relationships. The illustrations are captivating, and the narrative is filled with warmth and compassion. I have witnessed firsthand how this book has touched the hearts of my students and helped them navigate through their emotions with grace and understanding. If you’re looking for a heartfelt and impactful book to support children dealing with loss, “The Invisible String” is a must-have addition to your collection.
LavPebbles –
Would be nice if it rhymed, but it doesn’t. Still, it’s a beautiful story of twins (and I have twins, so I replace their names with the characters’ names when I read it to them) who are afraid to go to bed at night, but mama says they’re connected with an invisible string. This will help kids with separation anxiety. About to give them their own room, so this story would definitely help. This story could help a child deal with grief from a lost of a loved one as well as it mentioned a connection to a relative in Heaven.
Ashleigh –
Love this book and so does my 3 year old son. My son is starting school in a few weeks and is very nervous. I was recommended this book and he hasn’t stopped talking about our invisible string!
Abbi –
I have bought this book over and over for gifts to people who are beginning a new chapter. Such a great message. I’ve also used it for my son when he’s transitioned to a new school
JoeNik –
I’ve been wanting to purchase this book for quite awhile. In fact, it’s been sitting in my saved cart since one of our close friends passed away over a year ago. I was trying to find the right way to discuss it with my young boys, and this book was continually mentioned.
Recently, my youngest, started having some major attachment anxiety issues when leaving for school in the morning. His amazing teacher recognized his spike too. I actually came on here to order a “pocket hug” to show I’m always with him, and as I went to check out I noticed this in my saved items.
I thought it’d be perfect!
The next morning, I read it to both boys. Honestly, I barely managed to keep a dry eye! We discussed all the invisible strings we have (each other, sister in college, nana, our doggies in heaven, etc). They can feel it tug in their hearts whenever needed. Each morning, we mime tugging on a string to each other before they leave now, just as a reminder. I did purchase the pocket hug and tied a string to it- but, I forgot to give it to them, and I haven’t had to either. So, we’ll save it for now.
This is such a special book, and one that will be passed down and shared in my family for many years!
Amazon Customer –
This book has really helped my kids transition to school when they get separation anxiety. Definitely recommend.
Miss E MacIver –
I love this book! It’s a beautiful message for children, my four year old loves it.
Base100 –
Todo
Christina Peschutter –
I loved the story behind the book
Ari –
Our family is in process of losing a patriarch and we needed a way to open a serious conversation with our 8yr old. This book is so sweet, and provides a great conversation starter about love,life, and death. Connection is what it’s all about.
Brandi Webster –
Great story ordered for sweet little girl. I recommend this book for any little one experiencing loss.