Let's Talk about When a Parent Dies

School Library Journal

K-Gr 2-In the tradition of Mr. Rogers's very useful bibliotheraphy series, these books are illustrated with excellent full-page, full-color photographs and written in simple, caring language with psychologically correct insight. Shelter matter-of-factly addresses the various types of available housing for the homeless, the problems that may very well be encountered, and how children may be feeling about this dislocation in their lives. Although warm and understanding in tone, Weitzman's title on death is less intensely personal than fictional treatments such as Lucille Clifton's Everett Anderson's Goodbye (Holt, 1983) and therefore easier for adults to present to children. It covers the basics, including the initial shock, self-blame, fear of losing the other parent, sharing feelings, and eventual adjustment. Both books have a clear, conversational style and emphasize the importance of love in helping one through these traumas. The type is large, with plenty of leading, and is easy to read. Each page of text is like a brief chapter. The minimal glossaries are extraneous; the pronunciation guides woven into the narrative are annoying. The illustrations show children of various ethnic groups and are moving and sensitive, intensifying the emotional impact of both titles.-Patricia Pearl Dole, formerly at First Presbyterian School, Martinsville, VA