What Cloud Is My Grandpa In?

Book excerpt: Experiencing loss, whether sudden or expected, is extremely challenging at any age. Since children may not have friends who have had a similar experience, they may find this to be a scary, overwhelming and lonely time. A little turtle loves doing fun things with Grandpa! The turtle loves having Grandpa in the stands cheering loudly during T-ball games. Suddenly the turtle’s world is turned upside down when Grandpa falls ill and goes to the hospital. When the turtle’s parents share that “Grandpa has gone to heaven to live with God”, the turtle must somehow learn to live without him. The turtle misses Grandpa so much. While the little turtle wonders if Grandpa is living in a cloud, family members and friends help lead the turtle through many feelings during the first year following the grandpa’s death. Through this experience, the young turtle learns that it is okay to cry, laugh and be happy, as well as to forever love Grandpa! In this beautifully illustrated and touching tale, a young turtle learns how to deal with loss and grief after the turtle’s grandpa dies. The turtle is left believing Grandpa is watching and sending love from his heavenly cloud. This book provides numerous recommendations for adults supporting the grieving child. These include suggestions for honoring memories, creating tangible remembrances, and working through shared grief in a gentle and supportive way.