Memory Box

From the author and illustrator of The Memory Box, the best-selling children's book about grief, comes a new picture book to help and comfort families celebrating their first holiday season after the loss of a loved one. Grief is challenging for children and families any time of year, but during Christmas or other family-focused holidays, the death of a loved one can bring especially difficult feelings. In The Memory Tree, a child struggles with the recent loss of a loved one. Holiday lights don't seem to shine as bright, and celebrations don't feel quite as merry. But then she and her family find a way to commemorate their lost loved one: the decoration of a special Memory Tree, which allows them all to process their feelings and make the person a meaningful part of their celebrations. Joanna Rowland's sensitive writing and Thea Baker's beautiful illustrations gently prompt reflections and suggestions for readers to create their own Memory Trees at home. A grief book and heartwarming Christmas story in one, The Memory Tree provides comfort to grieving families--whether for the first holiday celebrated after the loss of a loved one, or many years later. A Child Mind Institute's "Best Kids' Books About Mental Health" Book

A beautifully written story and must-have resource for any adult helping a child cope with the loss of a loved one and working through grief. From the perspective of a young child, author Joanna Rowland artfully describes what it's like to remember and grieve a loved one who has died. The child in the story wonders if she will forget the person who has gone. Other days I wonder if I'll ever stop feeling sad you are gone. The main character creates a memory box to keep mementos and written memories of her loved one to help with the grieving process. Throughout the narrative, the child's feelings are acknowledged, allowed, and assured that feelings are normal and healthy to express. Heartfelt and comforting, The Memory Box helps children, parents, educators, therapists, and social workers talk about this very difficult topic together. The unique point of view allows each reader to imagine the loss of someone they've loved -- a friend, family member, or even a pet. A guide in the back includes information to help children manage grief and offers suggestions on how to create a memory box. Recommended and adopted by parenting blogs, bereavement support groups, hospice centers, social service agencies, military library services, church groups, and educators, The Memory Box offers a very simple approach to overcoming loss, separation, and disappointment while also giving support and encouragement that children easily understand. A perfect companion to this book is The Memory Book: A Grief Journal for Children and Families that helps children record stories, memories, and feelings as an honoring keepsake to be cherished for years to come. "When a loved one dies, children need consolation, love, support, and affection. The Memory Box addresses a difficult subject sensitively. This beautiful book will help start the grieving process and support children to talk about their loved one in a normal, healthy way."--Sue Atkins, author of Parenting Made Easy: How to Raise Happy Children