Today’s pick for Perfect Picture Book Friday is Always Remember 

Written by: Cece Meng

Illustrated by: Jago

Publisher: Philomel Books (2016)

Suitable for ages: Preschool and up

Themes/Topics: Life, death, grief, remembrance, legacy

Brief Synopsis: In the end, Old Turtle takes his last swim, and his last breath and he was gone. But is he? Physically yes, but his legacy lives on when all those he touched share their memories of him.  Other turtles he taught to swim, otters remember he loved to play, a manatee remembers how Old Turtle rescued him when tangled in a net.

Opening pages:  In the end,  on his very last day, Old Turtle swam his last swim and took his last breath. With his life complete, the gentle waves took him away.

 By dawn, everyone who knew Old Turtle knew he was gone.

Why I like this book: This book is tender and deals with an emotional topic in a very kid friendly way. Although death is a part of life, and can be unexpected or expected, grieving is part of the process.  The author showcases a way to grieve, by remembering how those departed have touched our lives. The illustrations are wonderfully tender and quiet.

Resources:

A gallery of art from the illustrator may be found here.

Advice about discussing death with children from a Hospice site may be found here and from the National Funeral Directors Association here.

Check out author Susanna’s Hill’s Perfect Picture Book page here to read more of today’s book reviews.