Author & Illustrator: Jessixa Bagley
Publisher: Neal Porter Books
Genre: Children
ISBN: 978-0-8234-4284-3
Pages: 32
Price: $18.99
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Henry and Bea are best friends. They love to play together, and they always seem to know just what the other is thinking. But one day, Henry doesn’t want to talk to Bea anymore. Instead, he sits alone in silence, avoiding everyone. Bea doesn’t know what happened, or if she did something wrong, but she keeps reaching out to see if there is anything she can do.
Finally, on a field trip to a farm, Henry tells Bea why he’s upset. His cat, Buddy, died, and he’s very sad. Bea gently comforts him, and they share a companionable silence. Then they decide on a symbolic act to honor Buddy’s memory, just as a storm begins. They both hope they will see a rainbow.
Children are understandably sad when a pet crosses the rainbow bridge. Henry and Bea demonstrates how to handle a friend’s grief in a positive and supportive manner, even when it appears that the person no longer wants to be friends. This touching and sweet book would be a perfect addition to any child’s collection.
Reviewer: Alice Berger
Bergers Book Reviews 