The Rough Patch

"You have to move through grief. There’s no other way. But how do you tell a kid that? Try this picture book. It opens with Evan and his dog, who do everything together, in bright, sun-filled pictures. But when the dog dies, Evan shuts the world out. We are witness to his anger and sadness, but finally the time comes when Evan is able to to take one step and then another back out into the world. The Rough Patch is gorgeous and straightforward and so true to life. Life has seasons, and the happy ones will help lift you out of the dark ones. And yes, there is an incredibly fitting and happy ending. Life throws a lot at you, but it’s going to be OK. (For ages 5 to 8)"