Ella beside Bear

＂Big bear was right, it was time I headed home.＂Ella goes on an imaginary journey with her little brother Leo and Big Bear, trying to find her missing heart brooch; a special gift given by her grandmother who’s no longer with her.She unravels her origami memories left by gran, taking her on a trail, which leads her to the ultimate treasure and final stages of grief. A surprise closure yet a reality.This adventure takes children on a playful journey and through story telling could support children who are already going through grief or a departure of a loved one.Subtly helping children find meaning through the memories they once had and replaying it as a remembrance to help in their own personal and meaningful stages of grief.The story addresses grief in a symbolic and playful way, just as some children may react themselves, which makes it a very effective tool that parents may also use as a reference or a talking point.Taking you on a journey to the world heritage site at the Jurassic coast in East Devon. Yet it’s through the mindset of a child’s imagination where there is a sense of reality when Ella, Leo and Big Bear all climb their cushions (steep cliffs) and jump into their cardboard box (small boat). The descriptive story writing takes you far into the sea and the delicate watercolour illustrations take you away to Ellas incredible journey. This story subtly references some stages of grief which some children may go through after the depart of a loved one. Healing a Child’s Grieving Heart, 100 practical ideas for families, friends and caregivers. Alan D. Wolfelt Companion Press