"I'm scared I'll forget you..."
From the perspective of a young child, Joanna Rowland artfully describes what it is like to remember and grieve a loved one who has died. The child in the story creates a memory box to keep mementos and written memories of the loved one, to help in the grieving process.
Heartfelt and comforting, The Memory Box will help children and adults talk about this very difficult topic together. The unique point of view allows the reader to imagine the loss of any they have loved — a friend, family member, or even a pet. A parent guide in the back includes information on helping children manage the complex and difficult emotions they feel when they lose someone they love, as well as suggestions on how to create their own memory box.
"Worried that she might forget the person, [the girl] puts together a 'memory box' filled with tokens to remind her of 'everywhere we’ve been, everywhere you’ve been, everywhere we wanted to go.' Baker’s mixed-media collages integrate bits of fabric and softly textured papers, creating a homey atmosphere that dovetails nicely with the girl’s homemade box. Rowland gently suggests that grief doesn’t always move in a straight line ('Some days are good.... Other days, I wonder if I’ll ever stop feeling sad') and emphasizes that one can cherish memories while simultaneously moving forward." — Publishers Weekly
Recommended Age | 4 - 8 |
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Author | Joanna Rowland |
Illustrator | Thea Baker |
ISBN | 1506426727 |
Publication Date | Sep 26, 2017 |
Publisher | Sparkhouse Family |
Language | English |