Brief Synopsis: In the end, Old Turtle takes his last swim, and his last breath and he was gone. But is he? Physically yes, but his legacy lives on when all those he touched share their memories of him. Other turtles he taught to swim, otters remember he loved to play, a manatee remembers how Old Turtle rescued him when tangled in a net.
Opening pages: In the end, on his very last day, Old Turtle swam his last swim and took his last breath. With his life complete, the gentle waves took him away.
By dawn, everyone who knew Old Turtle knew he was gone.
Why I like this book: This book is tender and deals with an emotional topic in a very kid friendly way. Although death is a part of life, and can be unexpected or expected, grieving is part of the process. The author showcases a way to grieve, by remembering how those departed have touched our lives. The illustrations are wonderfully tender and quiet.
Resources:
A gallery of art from the illustrator may be found here.
Advice about discussing death with children from a Hospice site may be found here and from the National Funeral Directors Association here.
Check out author Susanna’s Hill’s Perfect Picture Book page here to read more of today’s book reviews.
10 thoughts on “Always Remember by Cece Meng”
What a unique grief book for children. The art is stunning! Grief books are among the most researched reviews on my blog. Will have to read this one.
Isn’t the art amazing? You will love the story too Patricia. Please let me know what you think. I have extended family dealing with the impending death of a family member. I recommended this book for the young and old.
What a unique grief book for children. The art is stunning! Grief books are among the most researched reviews on my blog. Will have to read this one.
Isn’t the art amazing? You will love the story too Patricia. Please let me know what you think. I have extended family dealing with the impending death of a family member. I recommended this book for the young and old.
I’ll have to check this one out. A tender take on a difficult subject.
Yes, Beth. I know you will like it very much.
Keila, I have seen some great recent FB discussions on picture books about death. This looks just perfect to add to those lists. How tender.
It sure has all the elements to be a classic. It’s one of those just right books.
Sound very emotional! It would be interesting to discuss with children.
A perfect book to use for a child who may have lost or know a loved one will not be with us much longer.
the art is gorgeous – and who can resist a tale of old turtle?
It certainly is Sue. And you need a Kleenex or two when reading the story. So well done.