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A Special Relationship
Where’s Grandma? is a touching picture book that gently helps kids navigate the complex emotions of grief and loss through the comforting memories of a grandmother’s love. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I lost my mom I decided to put it into a book and pay homage to her. She was our Queen and we all miss her. I took notice of my family during this time, especially the youngest, my granddaughter Jordyn. Jordyn and my Mother had a special relationship so I decided to capture the beautiful moments that shared together and put it in a book.
The illustrations in Where’s Grandma? beautifully complement the story’s emotional depth. How did you collaborate with the illustrator to bring Jordyn’s journey to life?
I had a plan from the beginning as it relates to the storyline, as well as illustrations, so I never strayed from that. I knew what I wanted to do with the book from the beginning. I gave explicit details to the illustrator to work with, and she brought my vision to life. The illustrations turned out just like I wanted them to. They are amazing.
Can you share any advice for parents or caregivers on how to discuss grief and loss with young children using books like yours?
I know it’s tough, but I’d say start with my book, Where’s Grandma? It’s a great way to start up the conversation. Some kids just shut down and don’t want to talk about it. But this book has journals included to assist children on how to deal with the sadness they are feeling. This book can get the healing process going, for the children as well as their parents.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m working on a children’s Affirmation book. I hope to have it out by the end of the year or in early 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
This book takes you through Jordyn’s journey, as she deals with the loss of someone close and very dear to her. Jordyn’s emotions are up, down and everywhere. Jordyn has so many questions. Where did she go, and what does it mean to transition?
Jordyn looks to her Mommy for guidance on how to deal with her feelings and emotions during this time. Jordyn’s Journeys: Where’s Grandma?, gives you a beautiful view of the close relationship between Jordyn and her great-grandma and brings to light some of the special moments they shared, such as playing games and watching Jordyns’ favorite movie together. It’s a beautifully illustrated children’s book dealing with loss, grief and bereavement, from a child’s perspective.
Jordyn also shares several journals in this book that can be used to assist your child with dealing with their feelings and emotions, as they deal with the loss of a loved one. These journals can help to preserve memories of that special loved one, and help your child as they grieve and deal with their feelings and emotions.
Where’s Grandma?: A Child’s View on Loss, Grief & Bereavement
Where’s Grandma? is a heartfelt picture book that thoughtfully explores the experience of young Jordyn as she faces the difficult reality of losing her grandmother. Through her mother’s gentle guidance, Jordyn learns to navigate her grief by focusing on the joyful memories they shared like playing games or dancing and singing. These cherished moments offer her comfort, reminding her that her grandmother’s presence continues in her heart and memory.
The vibrant and meticulously crafted illustrations stand out and beautifully complement the emotional depth of the story. Jordyn’s emotions are vividly portrayed and bring her journey of loss and remembrance to life. Tackling the sensitive topic of loss can be challenging, particularly for young readers who often grapple with the concept of someone being there one day and gone the next. Author Tracey Smith addresses this challenge with compassion and skill, encouraging readers to embrace the memories of those they have lost and treasure the time spent with loved ones.
The language throughout is accessible and engaging, making it suitable for early readers whether they are reading independently or with a parent. The activities Jordyn enjoys with her grandmother are universally relatable, which will create an instant connection for readers. As a parent, I found these moments particularly resonant, having experienced many of the same activities with my own child. This story will undoubtedly strike a chord with young readers, offering them valuable insight into how they can process feelings of sadness and loss.
Where’s Grandma? is a tender and thoughtful children’s book that introduces young readers to an essential life skill of learning how to cope with grief and loss. I highly recommend this book to families who have recently experienced the loss of a loved one or to those seeking to open a meaningful dialogue with children about this important subject.
Pages: 28 | ASIN: B0CY8166M2
LITERARY TITAN 