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"What happens when we die?" is one of those questions we parents know our children will eventually ask. Why is it so hard to answer? We are grateful to author Dianne Ahern for providing an answer all parents will appreciate,
in the form of her newest book Today Someone I Loved Passed Away.
After reviewing the manuscript for this book her pastor told Dianne, "You are like a mother bird. You take the difficult stuff, chew it up, and put it out so that the little ones can digest it." After you read this book you will see how truthful that compliment is. Through an inspired and creative story Today Someone I Loved Passed Away offers a Catholic understanding of death and salvation, the
Sacrament of Anointing the Sick, and the Last Viaticum. The story opens with young Danny, who is enraged over having to give up his room to Grandpa Vernon who is coming to live with the family. (Sound like anyone you know?) Soon after Grandpa moves in the children experience the death of a playmate and it is Grandpa who explains death to Danny and his siblings. He answers the children's questions in an honest, patient way, sharing all the knowledge he has as a devout Catholic. Before long the kids begin to look forward to weekly meetings (in the memorabilia-strewn attic!) with Grandpa when he shares stories about his life, and the life and death of their grandmother. As you probably guessed, it is Grandpa who becomes ill in the end. Yes, it's sad, but at the same time it's uplifting to see that the children are able to draw strength and comfort from all the lessons Grandpa taught them as they deal with his decline and death. A 13-page reference section follows the story, with prayers for the sick and dying, Biblical support of judgment and purgatory and a helpful glossary. It also describes customs observed by other religions because, in the words of the author "With our multicultural society, our children make friends with people of all creeds and traditions. It is important for children to learn about other religions and how to show respect for others' beliefs." The book
closes with a special section in which a child and family members can create a lasting memorial for loved ones. If you know a child who is suffering through the loss of a loved one, or who needs help dealing with one who is terminally ill, or if you simply want to teach your child Catholic beliefs and traditions surrounding death, this book can help. It was written and illustrated for ages 8 and older, but since you'll probably be reading it with them anyway, you can make it work for a younger child too. Hardcover, 82 pages, 9" x 11 1/4".
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