Spring 2025

Why?

A Story for Kids Who Have Lost a Parent to Suicide

  • Interest Level: Kindergarten - Grade 3
  • Reading Level: Grade 3

A picture book geared to help parents and counselors communicate with young children about a parent’s suicide.

Oliver’s daddy loved him—a whole bunch, forever and for always. One day Oliver’s daddy died by suicide. Why? Oliver’s mommy hugs him tight, and she tells him why. And she reassures Oliver that his daddy loved him—and that will never change.

In developmentally appropriate language and evocative illustrations, this picture book helps open communication about why a parent completes suicide. A reader’s note offers more information about supporting children who have lost a parent to suicide.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-4338-4196-5
$19.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Kindergarten - Grade 3
Reading Level Grade 3
Genre Picture Books
Category SEL: A Self-Awareness, SEL: B Self-Management, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2023
Publisher Magination Press, American Psychological Association
Imprint Magination Press — American Psychological Association
Language English
Number of Pages 32
Publication Date 2025-01-01
Text Type Fiction
BISACS JUV039030, JUV013060, JUV015030
Dimensions 8 x 10
Features Note to adults, Original artwork, Teaching Guides, and eSource

Author: Melissa Heath

Illustrator: Frances Ives

Frances Ives has an MA in children’s book illustration from the Cambridge School of Art. Her most abiding source of inspiration is the constant yet ever-changing sky and all its colors.

Lerner eSource™ offers free digital teaching and learning resources, including Common Core State Standards (CCSS) teaching guides. These guides, created by classroom teachers, offer short lessons and writing exercises that give students specific instruction and practice using Common Core skills and strategies. Lerner eSource also provides additional resources including online activities, downloadable/printable graphic organizers, and additional educational materials that would also support Common Core instruction. Download, share, pin, print, and save as many of these free resources as you like!

Why?

A picture book geared to help parents and counselors communicate with young children about a parent’s suicide. Oliver’s daddy loved him—a whole bunch, forever and for always. One day Oliver’s daddy died by suicide. Why? Oliver’s mommy hugs him tight, and she tells View available downloads →