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by C. Delayne Duffy (Author), Michelle Durham (Illustrator)
Hillary the Hippo has a close, special friend in her life. However, when that friend passes away, Hillary learns how to handle grief and build lasting memories of those she loves most.
Granny Hippo and Hillary do everything together; Granny Hippo is Hillary's best friend! They make fried cherry pies together, they read books together, and even go to the backyard to swing on the swingset together.
However, Granny Hippo starts to slow down, smile less, and sleep more. Hillary notices the changes that come to the house, like more trips to the hospital and a special bed put in Granny's room.
One night, Hillary hears strangers' voices and sees flashing red lights coming into the house from the living room windows. Momma tells her that they've lost Granny.
"Lost how?" Hillary asks.
"Granny died last night," Momma says gently.
Upset and confused, Hillary begins to learn how to process her grief after Granny's death. She learns about where Granny's soul goes, what "arrangements" are, and how nice and supportive people can be in the darkest of times. Most importantly, she learns that she'll never be alone, and she will see Granny again.
Hillary the Hippo Loses a Loved One is a heartfelt children's book that doesn't shy away from the complex feelings and reactions that accompany death. It's a handy resource and storybook for parents, guardians, teachers, and counselors to help young children to understand their loss.
Within the book, Hillary the Hippo reacts to the loss of her Granny as many other children do. As such, the story can help children cope with loss-and understand that the emotions they feel, including confusion and sadness, are completely normal.
