K-Gr 4— Death is a difficult subject for adults as well as children, but in this poignant story, Ludin gives parents the opportunity to discuss the death of a beloved family member. Included is a letter to parents, providing guidance on how to read the story. The suggestions include allowing adequate time for questions and discussion, and some sample questions follow the story. The first few pages show the "joy, delicious meals, and warm hugs" that surround the girl. Her mother is a talented crafter, bringing to life stuffed animal creations that the girl imagines. And then, "Mom gets sick," and the joy and color drain from the girl's life, just as they do from the illustrations. Even though the girl hopes and prays, her mother dies. The girl is completely adrift. She worries about disturbing her busy father, blames herself, and rails against the injustices of her life. Her father gathers himself and tells her that they must share their grief to heal. Further, they must construct a new life while continuing to celebrate her mother. By the end, the girl knows that her life is "not perfect," but that her mother's love will always be "woven" into her life. The illustrations beautifully capture the shifting moods and cleverly reinforce the overarching metaphor that a good life is composed of many threads woven—or rewoven—with effort and love. VERDICT A sensitive portrayal of a family working through grief together. A must-have for every library.— Sally A. James

A look at death, grief, and the messy emotions they evokeReaders are informed that this story "is intended to be read aloud by an adult to a child." Six key points are outlined on how to do so. Then we meet our young protagonist and her parents, all tan-skinned. Mom loves sewing stuffed toys with her daughter, who narrates, but she soon gets sick and passes away. Grief gets buried, the father and child grow distant from each other, and Mom's belongings are tucked into boxes. A ball of yarn, its threads coming undone, proves a helpful metaphor for the girl's feelings. Only when she screams, "I WANT IT TO BE LIKE IT WAS BEFORE!" does Dad intercede, and the two begin the healing process together. The bulk of the book wraps itself in the girl's isolation and misery, only coming to practical advice and heartfelt platitudes in the last few pages. Backmatter asks readers to reflect on their own feelings. Earnest though a bit didactic, the book is buoyed by the skillful illustrations, which visualize vigorous and strong emotions. Originally published in Belgium and the Netherlands and translated from Dutch, the story would have benefitted from concentrating more on how the girl and her father intend to rebuild their relationship. Nonetheless, for those experiencing similar situations, the book offers a map for unmarked territory.There is no playbook for mourning, but this tale provides a gentle guide for the unthinkable.(Picture book. 3-6)