Photo by Brady

A parent might reach for this book when their child is grieving the loss of a parent, especially a parent in the military, and needs a story that doesn't shy away from sadness but offers a path toward healing. Set during the American Civil War, the story follows a young boy named Willie who has just lost his father in battle. He goes to work for the famous photographer Mathew Brady, and through the lens of a camera, he begins to process his own immense grief by documenting the lives and losses of soldiers. This historical novel gently explores themes of sadness, memory, and the power of art to connect us to those we've lost. It is a thoughtful choice for a child who can appreciate a more historical, less contemporary story about navigating loss, offering a way to honor memory and find meaning in the midst of sorrow.