I'm sure this is a ridiculously long shot but..
As a small child in the 60s I can remember being read a story about a star that fell to earth. That is literally all I recall apart from the fact it was very sad. Even now, over 40 years later I sometimes remember it and get a haunting feelling about it. I don't suppose anyone can think of any story it might have been?

I don't suppose you mean The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery? A star doesn't actually fall to the earth, but the main character is a prince who lives on an asteroid, and then comes to earth.

I will try and get hold of a copy and see - it is a long time ago so don't know but thanks for the suggestion.