And Still They Bloom

Overview

Responding to the fact that coping with a parent’s death can be especially hard on young children, this beautifully written and illustrated book is a valuable resource for parents and counselors. Ten-year-old Emily and seven-year-old Ben must deal with the loss of their mother to cancer. Guided by conversations with their father, they embark on a journey of grief and healing, each searching for a path to acceptance. Along the way, both children realize that their mother will always be with them in their hearts. And just as their mother’s flowers had bloomed in the garden, Emily and Ben emerge from the darkness of grief to bloom once more. Using nature as a backdrop for the cycles of life, this moving story emphasizes hope and healing and will connect with all readers who have lost a loved one.

Reviews

"Amy Rovere beautifully portrays the emotions, reactions, and questions children have as they struggle with loss. This is a 'must read' for parents and children coping with loss."  —Kenneth J. Doka, PhD, professor, The Graduate School of the College of New Rochelle and Senior Consultant to the Hospice Foundation of America

"This book is a gift to anyone hoping to provide comfort, understanding, and hope to grieving parents and children."  —Phyllis Kosminsky, PhD, FT, author, Getting Back to Life When Grief Won't Heal

"The honest sharing of difficult feelings, the loving guidance of a parent, and the useful suggestions for commemoration present a wonderful resource to help young people during challenging times. I highly recommend it!"  —Linda Goldman, LCPC, MS, FT, author, Life and Loss: A Guide to Help Grieving Children

Author Biography

Amy Rovere serves on the editorial staff of the American Cancer Society’s Books Division, helping create books for patients and families who are coping with cancer. When she was just nine years old, Amy lost her mother to cancer, and her work is inspired by her personal loss and her desire to help children who are going through a similar experience. She lives in Atlanta. Joel Spector is an illustrator whose art has been featured in books, magazines, and advertising and has been shown at the New Britain Museum of American Art, among other galleries. His numerous awards include the Gold Medal from the Pastel Society of America, a Society of Illustrators award, and Best in Show at the Kent Art Association. He lives in New Milford, Connecticut.