Because there are only a few books available that specifically feature a parent who lives with a chronic illness, we’re branching out to books that focus on other types of illness, books that focus on children with illness, and books that talk about feelings. Hopefully these reviews will help you determine whether any of these books might be a good fit for your family discussions!
The Rabbit Listened
by Cori Doerrfeld
Tyler is building something new and special with his blocks, and he’s feeling very proud of it – but then his amazing structure gets knocked down! His animal friends notice that Tyler is upset, but most of them use an approach that doesn’t make Tyler feel any better.
The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld starts with a situation almost all children can identify with: the disappointment and frustration of losing something you worked hard on. The chicken tries to make Tyler talk about what happened, but he’s too upset to talk. The bear tries to get Tyler to shout about it, but he doesn’t feel like shouting.
The animals suggest rebuilding, laughing, hiding, cleaning, and even knocking down someone else’s tower, but none of these suggestions make Tyler feel any better. One by one his animal friends leave when Tyler doesn’t take their suggestions, which only makes Tyler feel worse.
Finally, the rabbit cuddles up next to Tyler’s sad, curled up body and just stays by his side as Tyler processes his feelings. Then, the rabbit just listens as Tyler opens up about how he feels. With adorable illustrations, this New York Times bestseller shows the true power of simply being there to listen when a friend is upset.
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