About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a change in holiday plans or the disappointment of missing a beloved relative. It is a gentle, nostalgic story about a young girl and her eccentric Great-aunt May, whose bond is centered around creativity and their shared love for a singing canary named Willy. When a winter storm threatens their traditional Christmas visit, the story shifts from sadness to a beautiful lesson on how love transcends physical distance through shared memories and handmade gifts. It is a comforting choice for children aged 4 to 8 who are learning that traditions can evolve and that the spirit of family remains even when we are apart. This book validates the deep 'ache' of missing someone while offering a hopeful, creative path forward.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with the 'grief' of a cancelled event and the temporary separation from a loved one. The approach is direct and realistic, focusing on the child's internal emotional landscape. The resolution is hopeful and secular, emphasizing resilience and creative problem-solving.
