05/03/2026
"Inside you is an aspect of every person who has touched your life. These pieces are with you always …
“When someone makes it into another’s heart, a vibration is established …. This soul connection remains, even when a physical body dies, or a friendship ends …
“There is a future after grief. You will find your own way …
“Life is to be lived. It is time to move forward, mindful of your being and what makes your heart sing.
You will always remember, on some level.
You will live again.
You will cry again.
You will laugh again.
In its own time, your future is your own to create.”
– Excerpts from Moving On, the final chapter of "This is Not a Sad Book", by Elizabeth Vercoe with Kerry Abromowski and illustrations by Grace Fraraccio (revised edition: Affirm Press).
Whether for the older child, teen or young adult, this a beautiful easy-to-read guide to grief. It is not sad, but acknowledges sadness; is not heavy, but acknowledges heaviness and the pain associated with grief. Earning Honours in the Children's Book of the Year Awards, this book boasts a "bag of tricks" which help you understand, and deal with how you are feeling. "Our intention is to offer you hope, strength, inspiration, courage, and maybe even a smile or two in your time of need", the authors write.
We have previously written about the power of children’s picture books in grief, hope and healing, and recommended titles at https://www.burstows.com.au/support-and-resources/news. "This is Not a Sad Book" is another excellent resource for the next age-group. You may also find information to help teenagers who are grieving athttps://cdn.prod.website-files.com/68088e4f199ca7f97326071f/6853bb4cc4173dbe72b95741_support-brochure-being-there-for-a-teenager-who-is-grieving.pdf