Featured Titles for Kids: 🐝 I Can't Believe They're Gone & They Work
Can't Believe They're Gone by Karen Broughi
Published by Karen Brough
World rights available
Winner of the Firebird Book Award in the Children's Grief Book Category.
Winner of Reader's Favorite Gold Medal Award.
Endorsed by psychologists, therapists, and healthcare professionals.
The mouse family has lost someone dear...
Come follow each one as Bear helps them understand all they are feeling and how each expresses it in their own unique way. Tiny is so quiet, I wonder if Bear will be able to help him too.
You will find reassurance that you are not alone if you are dealing with a loss, and you may even see a little of yourself in the book's pages.
Join the mouse family on an emotional journey as Bear, their empathetic companion, helps them navigate the complexities of grief and its unique expressions.
In this beautifully written picture storybook, children (and families) will discover the stages of grief, common feelings, and meaningful ways to honor the memory of their loved ones.
With tender storytelling, this picture book reminds us that emotions aren't good or bad, right or wrong; they just are. If you or your child are coping with loss, find solace within these pages, knowing you're not alone and that healing and hope are possible.
⭐ Reviews
"An encouraging and comforting tale about loss that may help readers process their own emotions... Brough's depictions of grief ring true, and the variations she delivers show, as Bear says, that there's not a right or wrong way to feel... Kariyawasam's gentle illustrations, a mix of ink and watercolor with anthropomorphized animals in human clothing, capture both the somber tone and the vivid colors of celebrating life... Bear's patient words are full of kindness, and each visit helps show how sorrow can take on different forms in various mourners... The actions of the mice are diverse, which offers insights into how people cope with their own big feelings."—Kirkus Reviews
"An encouraging and comforting tale about loss that may help readers process their own emotions...Heartfelt and supportive, this is an important book to share with children who have lost a cherished companion in their lives."—Reedsy Discovery Reviews
"I Can't Believe They're Gone by Karen Brough is a heartwarming and empathetic guide designed to provide support and understanding to children navigating the complex emotions of grief.
The narrative showcases the different emotional responses and the characters' coping mechanisms to navigate their grief. From productive activities to creative outlets, the characters find ways to channel their emotions positively. Karen Brough showcases the importance of finding healthy ways to express and process feelings. These emotions are handled delicately and realistically, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their feelings."—Readers Favorite Review
Karen Brough is an accomplished Australian author and former primary school teacher with over a decade of experience educating children aged 4-12, specializing in early elementary (5-7 years old). Drawing from her rich life experiences, including entrepreneurship and international volunteer work, Karen brings a unique perspective to her writing. Residing in Melbourne, Australia, Karen continues to write and blog, dedicating her work to sharing hope and insights with those facing difficulties. Her background in education, combined with her knack for addressing sensitive topics in an age-appropriate manner, positions her as a valuable voice in children's literature, particularly in the realm of emotional wellness and coping strategies.
They Work by June Smalls
Published by Familius
World Rights Available
Age Range: 5 - 8
The newest addition to June Smalls’s nature series, They Work is a gorgeous nonfiction picture book about life for a hive of honeybees, complete with factoids
She is the queen. She fought for that position from the moment she broke out of her cell. Her job is important, but she is not the leader. A hive is only successful if many, many bees are working. But only the females are hard at work. Experience the life cycle of the honeybee up close and personal with this striking picture book from June Smalls (author of She Leads, He Leads, and They Lead) and illustrator Yukari Mishima.
Told in a poetic style along with fun facts on each page for older readers wanting a deeper dive, They Work is a beautiful exploration of life inside a beehive, as well as the dangers and predators bees face out in the world—including humans.
June Smalls has been making up stories since she only had pets and stuffed animals to share them with. With her first poem published in first grade June got the writing bug and never quit.
June is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and a lover of literature. She resides in Northern Virginia with her hubby, The Kid, and an ever-growing assortment of animals. When not writing June is researching, visiting zoos or aquariums, reading, or trying to convince her hubby they have room for just one more pet.
