The Memory Box: A Book About Grief

The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland

Illustrated by Thea Baker

Ages 4-8

“I’m scared I’ll forget you…”

From the perspective of a young child, Joanna Rowland artfully describes what it is like to remember and grieve a loved one who has died. The child in the story creates a memory box to keep mementos and written memories of the loved one, to help in the grieving process. Heartfelt and comforting, The Memory Box will help children and adults talk about this very difficult topic together. The unique point of view allows the reader to imagine the loss of any they have loved – a friend, family member, or even a pet. A parent guide in the back includes information on helping children manage the complex and difficult emotions they feel when they lose someone they love, as well as suggestions on how to create their own memory box.

The Memory Box is a 2017 Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards winner–a contest intended to bring increased recognition to exemplary children’s books and their creators, and to support childhood literacy and life-long reading.

Holding Onto Our Memories

The Memory Box is a beautifully written and illustrated story that explores a way to keep memories alive. The story begins with a young girl chasing her red balloon. It has gotten away from her as she travels through the woods.

After losing her balloon, this young girl reflects on the fact that she can always get another balloon. But, she can never get another person to replace the one she has lost.

As a way to hold onto her memories, the girl makes a memory box. She puts little remembrances in the box of places she went or wanted to go with her loved one. Anything that reminds her of the person she has lost.

Filling the Box

I love the idea of making a memory box to capture memories along the way. My precious Daddy and I loved to travel together and explore new places. We enjoyed getting off of the interstate and winding our way through backroads. We just enjoyed spending time together.

Every time I see a stone that reminds me of the Norwegian burial mounds we walked past, or a recipe that we both loved to eat, or a British mystery that we binge watched together…I will tuck away a little something to help me hold onto that memory a bit longer.

Recommendation

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a creative way to express their grief as well as hold onto their memories. This book is written for children but the message is for anyone walking through grief.