NEW BOOK HELPS CHILDREN START TALKING ABOUT DEATH

La Jolla, CA – Anette Bley’s And What Comes after a Thousand?, a picture book for children ages 6 and up, offers parents, teachers and caregivers an easy way to begin discussions about death and dying. A secular book, it is a story first about love and friendship, and then about loss.

Experts agree that children begin to express curiosity about death as soon as they begin to experience make-believe deaths in stories and games, in movies and on television. A pet’s death or overheard conversation may also be the catalyst. In Bley’s book, Otto may be old, but he can still play with slingshots, spit cherry pits, and tell tales of brave Native Americans. He and Lisa are very special friends, but when Otto gets sick and dies, Lisa struggles to understand.

In discussing death with children, it is important to help them view their feelings as normal. Feelings of anger, resentment, and confusion are common, and Lisa’s grief mirrors that of many children. Her rage, confusion and mourning are expressed openly, giving adults and children a way into what is often considered a taboo topic. “‘No one understands,’ Lisa says quietly. ‘Why did Otto leave me?’”

“Picture book are an easy first step to take when you’re trying to start discussions, or looking for ways to comfort. We’re proud to be publishing Anette Bley’s book for this difficult but common situation,” says Publisher Kira Lynn.

Kane/Miller Book Publishers is a very small, very specialized, very independent publishing company. Founded in 1984, the company brings the best of children’s literature from other countries to America. Please visit www.kanemiller.com for additional information.