Jar of Tears: Moms Aren’t Supposed to Die is a heart-wrenching story that captures the poignant journey of a young girl, Miracle, who grapples with the loss of her mother to cancer. Before her mother’s death, Miracle leads a joyful life filled with painting, church visits, and gardening. However, her world shatters when her mother’s illness recurs, and she succumbs to an infection in the hospital. This tragic event forces Miracle to move in with her father, stepmother, and two half-siblings. Struggling with denial and grief, Miracle finds it hard to accept her new family. Yet, through newfound friendship, faith, and familial bonds, she slowly begins to paint a new life on a fresh canvas.

Jar of Tears is a comforting read that holds immense value for young readers dealing with grief. Miracle’s struggles and emotions echo the experiences of many children who must adapt to a new life after a profound loss. One particularly moving moment occurs when Miracle’s best friend abandons her for a new girl, adding to her already heavy burden. This betrayal makes Miracle hesitant to share the news of her mother’s death with her new schoolmates. Over time, she learns to trust again, and the overarching message of rebuilding after loss is delivered with profound and powerful prose.

The novel also offers a realistic and sympathetic portrayal of anxiety. Miracle’s experiences, including panic attacks at school, especially during her first Mother’s Day without her mother, are depicted with sensitivity. She begins to speak with a school counselor and attends a support group for grieving children. Her unique coping mechanism is to collect her tears in a jar, believing that God treasures them. This act serves as a tangible reminder of how much she misses her mom. Despite her name, Miracle’s journey is not about miraculous recoveries but about tender, gradual healing. She ultimately understands that love does not vanish with death but transforms and endures.

Jar of Tears is an essential read for young readers navigating the complexities of grief. Its tender portrayal of loss, anxiety, and the path to healing provides comfort and insight. This book is particularly well-suited for children who have experienced the death of a loved one and are seeking solace in stories that reflect their own journeys.

Pages: 170 | ASIN : B0CZQB75GK