by Becky Birtha (Author) Maja Kastelic (Illustrator)
Children from all walks of life experience various emotions when their parent is in jail or prison, but they learn there are ways to communicate their feelings that will help improve their situation and remind them they are not alone.
Kids can have all kinds of feelings and questions when a parent is incarcerated. Rafael is embarrased. Rashid is angry. Yen wonders if it's her fault.
This sensitive story illustrates a range of situations children may face with moms or dads behind bars, while reassuring them they are not alone.
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PreS-Gr 3—How can a family stay intact if a parent is incarcerated? This tale follows children as they deal with bullying, isolation, fear, guilt, and uncertainty. In one scene, Xavier has his face down and is worried because he needs to keep his father's incarceration a secret while he is surrounded by happy children playing outside. Later on, Xavier is able to talk to his father on the phone and stay connected—where -he doesn't have to keep secrets from his dad.- The multiple story lines show the breadth of emotions a child may feel, as when Raphael is still angry and continues to avoid talking to his mom on the phone. This important picture book functions as a guide for children to understand their emotions about an incarcerated parent, but it also works as a way for a caregiver to support the child. The line drawings, in vignettes, have a soft palette and focus on the emotions of the children. The book ends with a note to caregivers, further resources, and tips to help adults be open and understanding. VERDICT A highly recommended title that serves as an excellent entry to discuss incarceration in an age-appropriate way or as a tool for children as they work through their complicated feelings.—Karen Ginman, BookOps: The New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library
Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
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