About This Book
A parent should reach for this book when a child is facing the loss of something constant in their life, whether it is a physical landmark, a pet, or even a transition away from a childhood home. This story provides a gentle scaffold for processing grief by framing it through the lens of gratitude and the endurance of memories. Through a father's letter to his children, the book recounts the life of a beloved backyard tree named Steve. Steve was more than just a tree; he was a clothesline, a swing set, and a silent witness to a decade of family milestones. When a storm eventually takes Steve down, the family must figure out how to say goodbye. This book is exceptionally appropriate for children ages 4 to 8 because it balances the sadness of loss with a healthy dose of humor and a hopeful conclusion. It offers parents a way to discuss how the things we love stay with us even after they are gone, making it a perfect tool for normalizing big emotions during difficult times.
