4 out of 4 stars
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How do you deal with the loss of something or someone precious? Do you recline into yourself in solitude, or do you turn to nature? Do you decide to live in a state of constant denial, or do you find mechanisms to cope? Charlotte's Shoes is inspired by the author’s loss of one of her twin babies, Charlotte. Alyssa Kent decides to write a children’s book to help children deal with the concept of loss or absence delicately and simply in a way that they can understand. And she does a perfect job of it.
With illustrations by Sylvia Harvey-Walker, Charlotte’s Shoes is a fiction book with poetic coloring. The narration comes through stanzas with rhyming words at the end of each pair of double lines. It tells the story of Maddie and Charlotte, two best friends who do everything together and can’t be separated. However, a distant job requiring Charlotte’s dad to go far away spells physical separation for both girls. How do they cope? How does Charlotte manage in the absence of her best friend, Maddie? Find out in this exciting Children’s book.
This book deserves nothing less than a perfect rating of 4 out of 4 stars. It was exceptionally edited, and I did not come across a single error. I dare say the author was able to achieve her singular purpose in writing this book perfectly. The concept of absence or loss is brought home to the child. More importantly, this book enables us to understand that despite physical separation for whatever reason, two people’s hearts can still be united.
Vitally, we also realize the importance of souvenirs and gifts from those we love. Not only do they have a utilitarian value or serve a particular function most times, but they also serve to remind us of special moments and memories. Through gifts, we can keep those we love close to our hearts, even though we may be physically separated.
The illustrations in this book are near perfect and follow the narrative exceptionally. They are colorful and easily capture the reader’s attention. Additionally, the pictures make the story come alive in the mind of the readers. This book is very brief in length and can be completed in one sitting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and recommend it to all who want to deal better with the loss and absence of a loved one.
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Charlotte’s Shoes
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