Why Mommy? Mommy Why? by Joe A. Bass IV starts as a tender and heartwarming story about a mother and daughter’s daily routine, filled with love, curiosity, and a playful call-and-response dynamic. Shami, a bright and inquisitive little girl, constantly asks “Why, Mommy?”—a sweet and familiar habit many parents will recognize. The book takes a sudden, gut-wrenching turn when Shami’s mother, caught up in the chaos of life and personal struggles, misses critical warning signs of a devastating event that her daughter tries to share. The final revelation is a powerful and harrowing lesson about the importance of listening to our children, even when life feels overwhelming.

The writing is simple and approachable, making it feel like an easy bedtime story—until it isn’t. The early pages lull the reader into a sense of comfort, with charming exchanges like when Shami’s mother gently reminds her to brush her teeth or buckle her seatbelt. These moments feel authentic, highlighting the warmth of their bond. But the shift in tone is shocking. The car accident introduces a layer of tension, but even then, the story seems to focus on a mother’s perseverance. When Shami’s behavior subtly changes—her refusal to laugh, her reluctance to sit—the heartbreak of hindsight sets in. The story brilliantly captures the small, everyday distractions that can make parents overlook what’s right in front of them. It’s a painful but necessary reminder that children communicate in ways beyond words.

This book left me reeling. The final reveal was a gut punch. The realization that Shami had been trying to speak all along but wasn’t truly heard is devastating. The writing doesn’t rely on overly dramatic language, which makes it even more powerful. The restraint in storytelling lets the weight of the events sink in naturally. It made me feel guilty, sad, and deeply reflective—exactly what a book like this should do. The message at the end, urging parents to be present and listen, is haunting in its simplicity.

I would recommend this book to parents, caregivers, and educators—anyone responsible for a child’s well-being. It’s not an easy read, especially for those sensitive to the subject matter, but it’s an important one. It forces you to pause and reconsider how often you truly listen to the children in your life. This book is a warning, a lesson, and a plea wrapped into one.

Pages: 31 | ISBN : 1963737148