Thank you to everyone who helps us talk with children

Between work and family, I have born witness to some events lately. While they make me think and explore my feelings, I wonder how a child would react and process these occurrences. I am amazed when I search for picture books, I find these topics addressed and discussed. Books which tackle these and other large, weighty themes with sensitive, humor and an eye for how a child might struggle. I am thrilled to see such creativity and awareness on the part of fellow authors to address them, to agents who work the authors to find the correct publishing house and editors who are willing to published them.

My five-year-old niece has leukemia. I sent her books on losing her hair and how other kids felt. I hope it is reassuring to her not to be alone and not only the other kids in the hospital which she identifies with as sick.

A client’s elementary school child identifies as non-binary. In my children’s high school many, many students are gender fluid. I love how mine look at me like it is so odd that I think about this, question it and at times find it confusing. When I stumbled upon one picture book about gender, identity and stereotypes, I realized that there is a growing body of books that allow children to realize they are not alone or provide a window for other children how to accept their friends.

We live in an exciting time where windows continue to be opened. I hope this continues and expands. How special is it that we, authors, can write a story to assist someone else.