LoveReading4Kids Says
July 2024 Debut of the Month
For all that it’s a book about loss, The Fun We Had is bursting with joy, a celebration of happiness, days out and shared memories.
A young girl visits her nana as the seasons pass, each time receiving a hug and a kiss, and together the two share memories of the happy times they’ve spent together. They remember sailing paper boats, splashing at the beach, making dens in the woods, and picnics in the garden.
These days Nana is poorly and when the child suggests ways to make her better, the answer is always the same: you can’t make me better, but you’ll always bring me joy. When Nana is no longer there, the happy memories remain, providing so much comfort and still bringing joy.
It’s a perfect way to talk to young children about sadness and loss, and a truly lovely testament to that very special relationship between grandparent and child. The rhyming text is poignant but understated and Sam Usher’s watercolour and ink illustrations beautifully document the changing seasons, the carefree joy of young children and the lasting power or happiness.
Andrea Reece
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The Fun We Had Synopsis
"Coulthard dedicates the book to her own mother, who died last year - and her skill is to convey that sense of loss entirely through the eyes of her child narrator. The story will resonate with any young reader who has lost a grandparent; but it will appeal to many an adult too."
The Telegraph
This poignant story of love and loss takes readers on a heartfelt journey through the changing seasons as a little girl visits her poorly Nana. Each time she visits, they remember all the special adventures they have shared together. When Nana dies, she leaves the little girl a box of keepsakes that she has secretly collected from their moments together. Through these shared memories, this moving story gently touches on the concept of bereavement in a way that is both comforting and easy for young children to understand.
Based on the author's personal experience, The Fun We Had was inspired by the bond shared between her young son and his Nana who passed away from cancer just before it was published. She wanted to write something about loss that would ultimately celebrate how powerful and precious our memories of loved ones are - especially when we no longer have them close.
- This book serves as a gentle introduction to the concept of loss, helping children process their emotions and find comfort in the memories of their loved ones.
- Charissa Coulthard's lyrical rhyming text captures the essence of love, loss, and the comfort found in cherished memories.
- Sam Usher's exquisite illustrations are full of beautiful and touching details.
- With a focus on treasuring joyful moments, even in times of illness.
- The recurring message that their love is enough - even if they can't make their loved one better - provides comfort and reassurance to young readers dealing with the sickness or loss of a loved one.
- Perfect for families experiencing bereavement, seeking a gentle way to introduce the topic to young children.
About This Edition
| ISBN: |
9781398524484 |
| Publication date: |
10th April 2025 |
| Author: |
Charissa Coulthard |
| Illustrator: |
Sam Usher |
| Publisher: |
Simon & Schuster Children's an imprint of Simon & Schuster UK |
| Format: |
Paperback |
| Pagination: |
32 pages |
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