I Had a Friend Named Peter: Talking to Children About the Death of a Friend (Hardcover)

~ (Author), Gail Owens (Illustrator)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 4 An exceptionally accurate and understanding account of the feelings and questions that arise when a child's playmate dies is presented in this gently-told story. Peter is run over while chasing a ball into the street, and Betsy's parents have the sad task of telling their daughter and helping her cope with the tragedy. They explain with simple clarity that the doctors couldn't make Peter well, that he can no longer feel pain or fear or loneliness, and that people normally don't die so young. They reassure her that a recent quarrel she had with Peter had nothing to do with his death. They describe the coming funeral and burial and invite her to go with them, if she wants to. Although the style is factual, there is a tender undertone which gives warmth, effectively reinforced by full-page and double-page spreads of an attractive family and school class done in deep but muted tones, with shades of pink and blue predominating. The mood is somber and meditative but loving. An excellent introduction to guide parents and teachers in helping children deal with death strengthens the book's use in bibliotherapy and expands its scope beyond the specific subject to all types of bereavement. The book would be best used with adult assistance. Patricia Pearl, First Presbyterian School, Martinsville, Va.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

When Betsy learns about the death of a friend, her parents and kindergarten teacher answer questions about dying, funerals, and the burial process. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: William Morrow & Co (September 1987)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0688066852
• ISBN-13: 978-0688066857
• Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 8.2 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,067,328 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A comprehensive story for a very difficult topic..., March 31, 2000

By A Customer

The author includes an informative introduction for parents and other caregivers regarding how to talk with children effectively about death. I particularly appreciated the format of the story. Betsy's parents talk with her about the death of her friend in an open and supportive manner. The feelings Betsy experiences are realistic and speak to the various ways in which children may react to death. This book addresses topics including funerals, burials and creating remembrances for the deceased. A warm, wonderfully written book that can be shared with children by parents, teachers and other caring adults.