Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to Finn’s Feather, Happy Birthday to you!
I’ve really been looking forward to the launch of this book! The author, Rachel Nobel, is one of my fellow Storm teammates. When my husband passed away last month, Rachel sent me a copy of her book because she hoped it would comfort me. And it did.
FINN’S FEATHER
Written by Rachel Nobel
Illustrated by Zoey Abbot
Published by Enchanted Lion Books (June 12, 2018)
Ages: 4-8
Themes: Coping with loss
Synopsis: From Amazon:
Finn knows his brother is gone. But he also knows that Hamish sent the beautiful white feather on his doorstep.
Finn runs to show his mother the feather from Hamish, but she only gives him a big hug. In school, Finn’s teacher responds similarly. Why isn’t anyone as excited as he is? Finn sits quietly, cradling the beautiful, amazing feather. “Why did Hamish give it to you?” asks his friend, Lucas. “Maybe he wanted to say hi?” wonders Finn. “Maybe,” Lucas says, “Hamish wanted you to have fun with it.” Finn’s Feather is a story about resilience and memory―about a child, his brother, and a friend who meets him where he is.
Why I like this book:
- Fabulous illustrations
- Kid-friendly scenes at school, playground, home with Finn and his friends doing and saying exactly what kids do and say…children will be able to identify with Finn
- This is a story filled with hope and heart
- Powerful example of how we can be the most help to someone who is grieving…often by just being there.
Coping with loss is something we all have to do…and it can be especially difficult for young children who usually don’t have a lot of experience with it. Rachel used her own family’s personal loss to craft a story that would help others…and we are all so grateful to her. It takes a great deal of courage to do something like this. And now we have this perfectly lovely story that is heading out into the world!
I’m also heading out into the world…flying to Chicago tomorrow to visit with family and hopefully hook up with some writer friends in the Chicago area.
VIVIAN KIRKFIELD - Writer for Children 
Oh, Vivian, I am so sorry to hear of your loss! What a trooper you have been to continue on with your blog while you are grieving. My heart goes out to you. And, what an absolutely beautiful book. I have had two similar incidences when I felt that someone who had passed (father, grandmother) seemed to send a ‘good bye sign.’ Fascinating to hear someone write about this, and a child’s interpretation of it.
Vivian, even though I only know you through reading your blog, I feel so sad for you. I hope you are doing ok. Take care…sending you lots of love and good wishes for your trip to Chicago…May it be just what you need.
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This book sounds so lovely and comforting with language that rings true. Congratulations to Rachel and Zoey on creating this heartfelt story.Thank you for sharing this book with us, Vivian. Enjoy your time in Chicago.
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This sounds like a beautiful book! Congratulations, Rachel & Zooey. Thank you for bringing this story to the rest of us Vivian. Safe & happy travels!
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What a lovely book. I got a lump in my throat just reading your description of it!
I so admire you for your inner strength, Vivian. Take care, safe travels, and enjoy “The Bean”!
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Thank you for sharing this tender book and your experience with it. This is a much needed story. My son lost two friends this month. I look forward to sharing this with him.
Sending hugs,
Carmela
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Just love the cover and the theme of this book.
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So looking forward to this one. Congratulations Rachel & Zoey. And safe travels Vivian.
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What a beautiful story of heart and hope! We need many different grief/loss books to fit the needs of children.
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A beautiful way to remember someone. Thanks for sharing. Have fun on your trip, Vivian!
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After the loss of my brother and my mother a few years apart, I started noticing unusual occurrences at key moments- almost as if they were beside me, gently guiding the moment.
I will have to find this book! Thanks for sharing Vivian!
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A beautiful story offering hope and healing. Looking forward to this one! Hope you have a wonderful time in Chicago Vivian!
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This sounds beautiful! I love the imagination and support Finn gets from his friend. Perfect! Congratulations!
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Vivian, this sounds like such a lovely book. And how kind and thoughtful of Rachel to send you this when your husband passed away. Hugs to you and to everyone who has ever lost a loved one.
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