Ella and Monkey at Sea

Name: Ella and Monkey at Sea
ISBN: 9780763692339

by Emilie Boon

For the child grappling with a big move, this book tenderly explores the sadness of goodbyes and the apprehension of starting somewhere new, while celebrating enduring friendship.

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About This Book

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the sadness and anxiety of a big move, especially when it means leaving a beloved grandparent. Ella and her stuffed animal, Monkey, are moving across the ocean to live with Papa in New York, and neither wants to say goodbye to Oma. The story tenderly validates a child's resistance to change and feelings of loss. For ages 4 to 7, this book's gentle pace and soft illustrations provide a comforting space to explore complex emotions. It's an excellent choice for normalizing a child's grief and opening a conversation about how love and connection can endure across any distance.

Moving Sadness & Grief Animals Friendship & Loyalty Friendship & Social Resilience & Perseverance Family & Siblings Love & Family

What Parents Should Know

Sad ThemesModerate

Directly and gently addresses the sadness and grief of leaving a loved one during a move.

Sensitive Topics

The book deals directly with the grief and anxiety of separation from a primary caregiver (Oma) due to a family move. The approach is secular and emotionally direct. The sadness is not sugarcoated, but the resolution is hopeful. It affirms that love continues over distance and that a new chapter, while scary, can also bring comfort and reunion with another parent.