Storm in a Jar by Samuel Langley-Swain - Book Review

Books

We are huge fans of books from the Owlet Press publishing house. They publish books to help create a positive change for children. Through stories, they can relate to and can digest, discuss relevant issues with friends, families, and schools – preparing them for adult life. We have previously reviewed What Wesley Wore one of our favourite bedtime stories! Today we are back with * Storm in a Jar by Samuel Langley-Swain a story that encourages children to talk about bereavement and anger and explore ways to manage, embrace, and safely release them.

Book Description

Arlo visited Nana every Sunday, and she would always have new sweets waiting for him inside a special jar. So when Arlo finds out Nana has passed away, he keeps the jar with him to feel safe and closer to his Nana. But as his sadness turns to anger, a storm builds inside the jar, until Arlo has enough – and smashes it open! What will happen when the storm rushes out?

What We Thought

This book really touched me. I lost my dad 3 years ago and my daughter was 2 years old. She doesn’t remember him very much but I tell her about him all the time. I show her pictures of when he used to look after her while I was at work. Now she’s that bit older she does ask where he is and now I have this beautiful book to help me explain bereavement to her. Which is such a tricky topic to discuss with young children, especially if your emotions are raw as well. Unfortunately, death is a part of all our lives and it can be difficult for children to understand and process. I really think this book is a fantastic resource for families and also schools for children learning to understand emotions associated with loss. And that it’s OK to experience these feelings.

Storm in a Jar is perfect for explaining the “passed away” scenario and deals with the topic gently while emotions can be running high. The illustrations go perfectly with the words. Katie Cottle has an amazing talent!

Included at the back of the book are two experiments to create a Storm in a Jar and a Stormy Bottle. Sensory crafts to help with anger and anxiety. This is such a great touch to a wonderful book.

Thanks to Owlet Press for our preview copy – I’m glad to be sharing this with you.