Death Is Stupid

Given the relentless stream of news, there’s a temptation right now to numb ourselves. But Ms. Higginbotham’s work reminds us that, even if we ignore reality, our kids are still seeing it and feeling it. —THE NEW YORK TIMES A perfect antidote to all those gentle and fanciful introductions to the toughest and least whimsical of topics... If your child craves directness... [then] this smart, sensitive book is just the thing. —CHICAGO TRIBUNE It's [an] exact mix of true-to-life humor and unflinching honesty that makes Higginbotham’s book work so well, and many of the plainspoken sentiments she includes, as well as several included ideas for how to remember and honor those who have departed, may be eye-opening for readers facing grief themselves. —PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (*Starred Review) Clearly written to validate and respect a child's feelings, this book is a useful resource for parenting collections or patrons looking for a relatable exploration of death. —SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL The author’s comments are spot-on in validating the child's response, in leaving room for individual beliefs about an afterlife, and in suggesting ways to ease the immediate sense of loss. —KIRKUS Wow, and thank God for this book. What an incredible gift this book will be for countless children. Having it fifty-plus years ago would have been a kind of salvation for me and would have helped me grow into a healthier and infinitely less frightened person. —ANNE LAMOTT, author of Grace (Eventually) We can't stop death, but we can stop the ridiculous sheltering we impose on our naturally curious children. —CAITLIN DOUGHTY, mortician and author of Smoke Gets in Your Eyes Finally! A book I can give to families! —DANIELLE ANDY BELUSKO, funeral home owner and director A beautiful, unique resource for discussing death and loss with children. —KORIE LEIGH, MA, CCLS, CT, child life specialist and bereavement counselor