Everything Naomi Loved

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the disappearance of something familiar, whether it is a beloved local shop closing, a neighbor moving away, or the physical changing of their neighborhood. This story follows Naomi as her favorite city block undergoes rapid transformation, causing her to feel a deep sense of loss. With the help of her friend Mr. Ray, she finds a creative way to preserve the spirit of what she loves through art. It is a gentle yet powerful exploration of gentrification and community change, themes often overlooked in children's literature. While the emotional core deals with sadness and grief, the book remains hopeful and empowering for children ages 4 to 8. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's attachment to their environment and provides a tangible strategy for processing changes that feel out of their control.