The memory box a book about grief

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"Baker's mixed-media collages integrate bits of fabric and softly textured papers, creating a homey atmosphere that dovetails nicely with the girl's homemade box." --Publishers Weekly

"A small children's book can't say everything, but it can say something very important. This wonderfully illustrated book does just that. Joanna Rowland gently reminds a hurting child that amid the pain of losing a loved one to death, their love remains alive in memory and relationships, and that love is not diminished even as the child is called to go on living. Many young (and old!) hearts will find real comfort and courage in these pages." -- Kelly M. Kapic, author of Embodied Hope: A Theological Meditation on Pain and Suffering

"When a loved one dies, children need consolation, love, support, and affection. The Memory Box addresses this difficult subject sensitively. This beautiful book will help start the grieving process and support children to talk about their loved on in a normal,healthy way." -- Sue Atkins, author of Parenting Made Easy: How to Raise Happy Children

The Memory Box is a 2017 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards winner--a contest intended to bring increased recognition to exemplary children's books and their creators, and to support childhood literacy and life-long reading.

Joanna Rowland grew up in Sacramento, California, where she still lives today with her husband and three children. She teaches kindergarten by day and writes picture books at night. In the summer, you'll find her at the pool coaching synchronized swimming or cozying up with a book. She is the author of The Memory Box: A Book about Grief; The Memory Book: A Grief Journal for Children and Families; and Stay Through the Storm.

The memory box a book about grief

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 ·  260 ratings  ·  54 reviews

The memory box a book about grief

Start your review of The Memory Box: A Book About Grief

The memory box a book about grief

Oct 23, 2018 NayDoubleU rated it it was amazing

At work (Amazon books) and noticed this book, started reading it and ended it crying on the floor. This book is so beautiful and heart warming. Although it's a tough subject, it's absolutely a topic that should be discussed and it was discussed in such a hopeful manner. Beyond beautiful. I hope the author continues to write books for the early childhood education years on tough subjects and the illustrations were amazing as well,they gave a very mellow calming vibe and that was beautiful in its At work (Amazon books) and noticed this book, started reading it and ended it crying on the floor. This book is so beautiful and heart warming. Although it's a tough subject, it's absolutely a topic that should be discussed and it was discussed in such a hopeful manner. Beyond beautiful. I hope the author continues to write books for the early childhood education years on tough subjects and the illustrations were amazing as well,they gave a very mellow calming vibe and that was beautiful in its self ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Aug 19, 2020 Lizzie Stewart rated it really liked it

A solid book about one way a child might maintain a connection with a deceased loved one, The Memory Box introduces the idea of gathering cherished memories and keeping them in a box. While this book is not quite as expansive as others on the topic, it is a very practical, hands on contribution to the selection of books about grief for children. I will definitely use this book as a foray into therapeutic activities in my work with children.

The memory box a book about grief

#FirstLine ~I lost my balloon once.

A must for families to help young ones dealing with and processing grief and loss. I work in emergency victim services and cannot wait to incorporate this book and journal into resources for the families we service. This book is not only beautifully written, but also beautifully illustrated. The book and journal duo is a great way for families to come together and celebrate and remember those we have loved and lost!

The memory box a book about grief

Oct 03, 2017 Pam Mooney rated it it was amazing

A lovely book with kind words and beautiful illustrations. Written with love and compassion for the child who may be reading. I have little girls in my life who lost their mom at a young age and I can see how this book would be so beneficial to a child going through grief. It reinforces and may say differently what they are hearing from their parent or guardian. Also nice to have in their room or special place where they can read. I can see this book being a gift from a teacher, classmate, gran, A lovely book with kind words and beautiful illustrations. Written with love and compassion for the child who may be reading. I have little girls in my life who lost their mom at a young age and I can see how this book would be so beneficial to a child going through grief. It reinforces and may say differently what they are hearing from their parent or guardian. Also nice to have in their room or special place where they can read. I can see this book being a gift from a teacher, classmate, gran, or anyone who wants to give comfort to a child. A very special treasure. ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Beautiful story and gorgeous illustrations. It's the perfect gift for a child grieving the loss of a parent, grandparent, sibling, or even a beloved pet. Beautiful story and gorgeous illustrations. It's the perfect gift for a child grieving the loss of a parent, grandparent, sibling, or even a beloved pet. ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Dec 02, 2019 Kris rated it really liked it

This is helpful as a resource for grieving kids, and although it says it is from a Christian perspective, the religious elements are pretty innocuous and wouldn't make the majority of secular people uncomfortable. I found it to be a good balance of spiritual, but without an agenda. This is helpful as a resource for grieving kids, and although it says it is from a Christian perspective, the religious elements are pretty innocuous and wouldn't make the majority of secular people uncomfortable. I found it to be a good balance of spiritual, but without an agenda. ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Oct 08, 2017 Tara rated it liked it

Good concept but not a fan of releasing balloons as a way to remember loved ones. This practice is awful for the environment.

The memory box a book about grief

This is a story with a powerful message to children of loss and grief. This book gives children ways to cope and remember their lost loved ones and how to keep them in your memory for a lifetime. I'd use this book for children who have lost loved ones, so that they can read it and feel like they are not alone. Children will be able to learn some coping mechanisms that they may not have thought of before, which will help children who are dealing with loss and grief deal with it in healthy, proper This is a story with a powerful message to children of loss and grief. This book gives children ways to cope and remember their lost loved ones and how to keep them in your memory for a lifetime. I'd use this book for children who have lost loved ones, so that they can read it and feel like they are not alone. Children will be able to learn some coping mechanisms that they may not have thought of before, which will help children who are dealing with loss and grief deal with it in healthy, proper ways. ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Jul 12, 2019 Lillian rated it it was amazing

This book is an excellent book to use for a beginning conversation on grief. I have made memory boxes to give to someone grieving. Having a child make a memory box is a special hands-on project that allows the child to have a conversation, time for reflection, and a keepsake in which to add more memories - new ones and old.

When I meet with grieving children, I find that when they are distracted with an activity they are likely to open up. And then there are times when it allows them to "be" and

This book is an excellent book to use for a beginning conversation on grief. I have made memory boxes to give to someone grieving. Having a child make a memory box is a special hands-on project that allows the child to have a conversation, time for reflection, and a keepsake in which to add more memories - new ones and old.

When I meet with grieving children, I find that when they are distracted with an activity they are likely to open up. And then there are times when it allows them to "be" and not be pressured to engage. Creativity is a good tool to use when healing hearts. The heart of the individual can be freely expressed without judgment or expectation.

A child often has difficulty expressing themselves. They have questions that are hard to articulate. The number one question is often "what do I do with my feelings"? Even though they may not express it as such. The memory box gives them a physical space to place feelings and memories that raise questions about their feelings. Will I always feel sad? Is it okay to be happy? And even helping when the time comes they have moments when they feel alarmed they have forgotten the loved one or a particular memory.

Each page has simply statements that any child can relate to give them pause for thought. It can give them comfort that other children have had the same feelings.

And finally, it's a good book for anyone to read who is looking for insight into what children may be thinking and feeling when living with a loss.

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The memory box a book about grief

May 21, 2018 Ember Air rated it it was amazing

This was beyond amazing. The concepts in this book are explained on a level that most young children will be able to understand, and most adults will be able to implement. The book is worded in such as way as to never actually say who the person who passed was in relation to the girl, so it is very universal on that front. There is a section at the back of the book that made me so happy, it is a section where a professional explains the coping patterns of children, and the ways that adults can h This was beyond amazing. The concepts in this book are explained on a level that most young children will be able to understand, and most adults will be able to implement. The book is worded in such as way as to never actually say who the person who passed was in relation to the girl, so it is very universal on that front. There is a section at the back of the book that made me so happy, it is a section where a professional explains the coping patterns of children, and the ways that adults can help them. As an adult reading for children, this book was very informative; as an adult reading to read, this book had me in tears. It gave me ideas on how to handle some of my own sorrows, which is pretty awesome. ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Jan 22, 2018 Erin rated it it was amazing

I won this book in a giveaway and I can't believe I waited this long to read it! (To be fair, it's been a couple of busy semesters.) The girl's journey through her loss was really touching. It's a great look at how the loss of a loved one can change our lives and how we can actively remember and celebrate them, even while missing them. The collages are beautiful, full of colorful textures that just gave a soft and comforting vibe. Great book and I'd recommend it to others :) I won this book in a giveaway and I can't believe I waited this long to read it! (To be fair, it's been a couple of busy semesters.) The girl's journey through her loss was really touching. It's a great look at how the loss of a loved one can change our lives and how we can actively remember and celebrate them, even while missing them. The collages are beautiful, full of colorful textures that just gave a soft and comforting vibe. Great book and I'd recommend it to others :) ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Sep 07, 2019 Sandy Brehl rated it really liked it

A gently structured story of a young person using a memory box device to gather and recall and share various memory-triggers for a loved one who has passed. The concept translate well to the specific activity, but also to the various (and universal) feelings of loss, worries about additional loss of memories, and the soothing/healing effects of time.

The memory box a book about grief

Sep 28, 2017 Tracie rated it really liked it

A young child is afraid they will forget someone who has died.

The memory box a book about grief

Nov 02, 2020 Kaylee Mouser rated it it was amazing

This book is about dealing with loss. It's from a child perspective. This young girl fears that she will forget her grandmother. She fears that the memory will fade. But, she then realizes that she can make a memory box. This girl walks about day by day collecting things that remind her of her grandmother. This way her memory will never fade. Some days are good for the girl, other days she is sad. I love how realistic this book is, the process of grieving isnt easy and this book shows the little This book is about dealing with loss. It's from a child perspective. This young girl fears that she will forget her grandmother. She fears that the memory will fade. But, she then realizes that she can make a memory box. This girl walks about day by day collecting things that remind her of her grandmother. This way her memory will never fade. Some days are good for the girl, other days she is sad. I love how realistic this book is, the process of grieving isnt easy and this book shows the little things you can do to make it easier. Like thinking about the special times with your loved one, and to keep doing those things.. Because this way the memory keeps living. I also think the illustrations are amazing, they show perspective. It's got illustrations in birds eye view looking down on the girl. It's also got texture, you can see and feel how warm the grandmother's knitted blanket was in the picture. You can see the girl is happy on the sunny days, and see that she is not so good on the gloomy days. Overall, this book is sad, but it's realistic. And a suffering child might really benefit from hearing that other people have gone through and overcome the sadness that comes with losing someone.
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The memory box a book about grief

Summary
In the memory box, a young girl (child) is worried she will forget the loved one who passed away. Throughout the book, she creates a memory box with things that remind her of the loved one. She talks to others about the loved one to collect more memories to keep in her box. In the end, she knows she will never forget the person.

Evaluation
I like this book because it communicates about grief on a level that children can understand and this is not common for books.

Teaching
I would not use thi

Summary
In the memory box, a young girl (child) is worried she will forget the loved one who passed away. Throughout the book, she creates a memory box with things that remind her of the loved one. She talks to others about the loved one to collect more memories to keep in her box. In the end, she knows she will never forget the person.

Evaluation
I like this book because it communicates about grief on a level that children can understand and this is not common for books.

Teaching
I would not use this book for whole group teaching. I would have this book in my classroom library for students to read if they are interested because it can prepared them for grief or it can retroactively help them. It can be used to teach them how to deal with their emotions. It is important to use books not only as academic teaching resources but social teaching resources because it can make students see more value in books. Also, it provides another way for students to relate to the subject matter and it might click this way whereas it didn't the other ways.

...more

The memory box a book about grief

Oct 13, 2017 Erin Buhr rated it really liked it

Children experiencing grief is an especially tricky and emotional process. This story explores the questions of Will I forget my loved one? and What do I do with my feelings? It carefully deals with a child’s feelings of wanting to remember their loved one but also needing to move on with life. The emotions are raw and deep, but so too is the hope and love. I especially enjoyed the layered and textured illustrations that add an intriguing depth and beauty to the book. Don’t miss the helpful afte Children experiencing grief is an especially tricky and emotional process. This story explores the questions of Will I forget my loved one? and What do I do with my feelings? It carefully deals with a child’s feelings of wanting to remember their loved one but also needing to move on with life. The emotions are raw and deep, but so too is the hope and love. I especially enjoyed the layered and textured illustrations that add an intriguing depth and beauty to the book. Don’t miss the helpful afterward by a hospital chaplain that specializes in helping children and families deal with grief. I think this book would be helpful for children and families experiencing a loss.

*I received a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

...more

The memory box a book about grief

When children experience grief from the loss of a loved one, they need a way to channel their feelings. If they worry, have fear or are lonely because they will miss the loved one, parents and guardians can help a child with these feelings by creating a memory box. Putting together a memory box will help the child create a space where favorite pictures and objects can be kept.

This beautifully illustrated book shares a story of a young girl experiencing the grief of losing a loved one. Parents c

When children experience grief from the loss of a loved one, they need a way to channel their feelings. If they worry, have fear or are lonely because they will miss the loved one, parents and guardians can help a child with these feelings by creating a memory box. Putting together a memory box will help the child create a space where favorite pictures and objects can be kept.

This beautifully illustrated book shares a story of a young girl experiencing the grief of losing a loved one. Parents can sit down with a child to help them understand and cope with their feelings. The back pages share more tools and resources to help families.

...more

The memory box a book about grief

Apr 22, 2020 Laura rated it it was amazing

This gentle book with touching illustrations feels like a comforting hug. A child worries that she will forget her deceased loved one (only referred to as 'you' so the reader can think of their specific relative or friend). Gathering memories in a special box helps her process her grief and this activity is a tangible takeaway for families looking for grief support. Backmatter provides caregivers with suggestions for helping children with their grief. A companion journal is also now available: T This gentle book with touching illustrations feels like a comforting hug. A child worries that she will forget her deceased loved one (only referred to as 'you' so the reader can think of their specific relative or friend). Gathering memories in a special box helps her process her grief and this activity is a tangible takeaway for families looking for grief support. Backmatter provides caregivers with suggestions for helping children with their grief. A companion journal is also now available: The Memory Book: A Grief Journal for Children and Families. ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Sep 15, 2020 Erin rated it it was amazing

Our kids’ school sent a copy of this book home with each of them today after the loss of their oldest sister, along with their own memory box where they can keep memories of her. Both parents cried while we read the book. The pictures are beautiful with a beautiful message letting us all know we will never forget her. 💔

The memory box a book about grief

Mar 26, 2021 Miss Kelly rated it really liked it

This is a good picture book on how to deal with grief. I feel the book is good for all ages to read.
In the back of the book is a letter from Mary Lindberg, who is a hospital chaplain that deals with children and families experiencing grief.
She gives useful advice to parents and older people how to deal with children who are processing grief.

The memory box a book about grief

Aug 16, 2021 Suzie rated it it was amazing

I had to pre-read this before I read it to the kids, wait a few weeks, and then read it aloud to them with my most cheery voice so that I wouldn’t cry. LOL It is a lovely book though. It handles death in a delicate way for children and presents a great idea of creating a memory box to remember someone a child has loved and lost.

The memory box a book about grief

Dec 28, 2021 Heydi Smith rated it really liked it

This book ripped me apart. I needed it so badly but man did it hurt. This is a story of a young child who is worried she’ll forget her loved one that has died. She thinks of ways to remember them. Ways so she won’t forget important pieces and memories.

I love this story.

I think everyone should have this book, as painful as it is. It’s so very needed.

The memory box a book about grief

Not a book I hope my granddaughter has to read anytime soon, but a wonderful book for any child missing someone they love who has died. This is a perfect book to help children through the grieving process.

The memory box a book about grief

Nov 01, 2017 Mary rated it it was amazing

Losing a loved one is hard for anyone, but especially hard for a child. This book helps children navigate the feelings that come with loss and provides suggestions for how to move through the emotional distress.

The memory box a book about grief

Apr 01, 2018 Sasha rated it it was amazing

Wonderful analogies and simple explanations of feelings. "The MemoryBox explores two questions that help us understand how children deal with grief: 1) Will I forget my loved one? 2) What do I do with my feelings?" Wonderful analogies and simple explanations of feelings. "The MemoryBox explores two questions that help us understand how children deal with grief: 1) Will I forget my loved one? 2) What do I do with my feelings?" ...more

The memory box a book about grief

Feb 17, 2020 Halie Korff rated it it was amazing

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. This book would be an asset to have in class because it help children understand feelings and grief they might experience as well as how they can handle it and option they have. The book is a softer more mellow book with a light tone.

The memory box a book about grief

Apr 15, 2021 Joan Arbogast rated it really liked it

A gentle approach to loss of a loved one.
A great resource for adults to share with kids.
Acknowledging the realities of loss,
a concrete way to work through loss,
and to meet the fear of forgetting, ("I'm scared I'll forget you...")
ultimately showing hope for days to come.
A gentle approach to loss of a loved one.
A great resource for adults to share with kids.
Acknowledging the realities of loss,
a concrete way to work through loss,
and to meet the fear of forgetting, ("I'm scared I'll forget you...")
ultimately showing hope for days to come.
...more

The memory box a book about grief

Aug 05, 2022 Cierra Amelia rated it it was amazing

Read this for my child and adolescent psychology class. A wonderfully illustrated book for children learning to deal with one of the hardest emotions. I cried by the end. Would definitely recommend this to an adult looking to help a kid in their life.

The memory box a book about grief

Dec 16, 2017 Jason rated it really liked it

Surprisingly good book about creating a box of memories to help deal with grief. Beautifully, lyrically written.

The memory box a book about grief

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The memory box a book about grief

What is a theme of the memory box a book about grief?

From the perspective of a young child, Joanna Rowland artfully describes what it is like to remember and grieve a loved one who has died. The child in the story creates a memory box to keep mementos and written memories of the loved one, to help in the grieving process.

What to read after losing a parent?

Specifically for grieving a mother.
Cradled All the While: The unexpected gifts of a mother's death. ... .
A Grace Disguised. ... .
In My Mother's Kitchen. ... .
In the Letting Go: Words to Heal the Heart on the Death of a Mother. ... .
The Last Violet: Mourning My Mother. ... .
Life Lessons My Mother Taught Me: Universal Values from Extraordinary Times..

How do you get over a grieving book?

How to Go on Living When Someone You Love Dies. ... .
The Invisible String. ... .
“The Fall of Freddie the Leaf” by Leo Buscaglia. ... .
When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death. ... .
The Other Side of Sadness. ... .
I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye. ... .
Bearing the Unbearable. ... .
'A Parent's Guide to Raising Grieving Children,' by Phyllis R..

How do you start a grieving book?

How to Write About Grief in a Story or Novel.
Honesty. You need to be real in demonstrating grief. ... .
Emotion. ... .
Vulnerability. ... .
Make the Reader Care. ... .
Avoid Making the Characters Isolated. ... .
Keep Nudging Forward. ... .
Demonstrate a Transition in Dealing With Grief. ... .
Find an Outlet for Grief..