Heart Never Forgets, The

Reach for this book when your child is facing their first major holiday or family celebration after the loss of a grandparent. It is particularly helpful for children who feel conflicted about participating in joyful events while still feeling the weight of grief. The story follows a young girl attending a traditional West African masquerade festival, where she learns to channel her sadness into a beautiful dance of remembrance. The book uses evocative gouache illustrations and cultural back matter to show that honoring our heritage is a powerful way to stay connected to those we have lost. It is a gentle, secular approach to mourning that validates a child's complex emotions during times of public celebration.