A dear and gentle
book about the value of friends, of being in nature and of playing, even when
saddened by the loss of a pet.
Little
Ted’s friends Jemima, Humpty, Big Ted and Kiya are coming to visit, because he
is very sad about the death of his pet goldfish and friend, Swish.
His friends
bring Little Ted a scrapbook with photos of Swish to stick into it, along with a
picnic for when they get hungry, a ball to play with outside together, and the
reassurance that they will come back another day to play again.
All of these things serve to help Little Ted to feel a little happier, despite
his loss.
Featuring beloved
characters from the ABC tv show Play School, the book models kindness, nature,
joy and playing as valid supports in a time of grief.
The lovely illustrations, created in Adobe photoshop, are gentle pen and wash
watercolour images. They’re tender and clear, the colour not overly bright and
so the feeling from them encourages quiet reflection.
This is a
helpful book that will support conversations around death and loss – with some
lovely ideas for keeping memories alive on the inside. It also brings the reminder
to look for things that uplift your heart, through the process.
Highly
recommended for the home and school library.
Title: Beginnings And Endings – A Play School Mindfully Me Book About Death And Life
Author: Jan Stradling
Illustrator: Jedda Roboard
Publisher: HarperCollins, $24.99
Publication Date: 2 August, 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780733342400
For ages: 3 +
Type: Picture Book
