How to Say a Good-Bye! – Book Review
Written by an educational psychologist, Dr Maria Stylianou, this self-help psychological parental counselling book is for the ears and psyche of both adults and children alike. I was so happy to receive a review copy of this book, and I am excited to tell you all about it.
How to Say a Good-Bye! is a children’s book that is perfect for readers of all ages, and you will also appreciate reading it together if you have a young person in your life dealing with loss. The beautiful illustrations by Andreas Chasomeris bring the story to life, and help young readers remain engaged throughout.
We begin with a story of Pete, sitting alone on a park bench, too sad to play. John befriends him and invites him to play, and when he asks why he is so sad, Pete explains that his grandpa died and he misses him. John makes space for Pete, and sits down with him. Zoe who was playing nearby, also moves closer and listens to their conversation.
John tells a story of his grandmother, and what his mother told him to do when he was missing his Grammy the most. He recounts memories he had with his Grammy, encouraging Pete to do the same with memories of his grandpa. They talk about their complex feelings of grief – the sadness, the anger – all of it. And Zoe joins in with her own story of a different type of loss.
And the three young friends learn a powerful lesson together about love and loss that they take back home to their own families.
While this is a children’s book written for children, it also aims to help parents find the words to soothe themselves and their children when dealing with loss. It has done this so beautifully!
It’s a quick and moving read that I actually wanted to read again. I imagine I will pick this up again and again over time, and I know I will whole-heartedly recommend it to any families or young readers coping with grief and loss.
5 glowing stars for a very special book!
It’s available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.