
A parent might reach for this book when their middle schooler is grappling with the recent death of a parent or close loved one. It offers a gentle and relatable path through the initial, overwhelming stages of grief. The story follows thirteen-year-old Sierra, whose world is shattered by her father's sudden death. To cope, she begins writing letters to Abraham Lincoln, a historical figure she and her father both admired. This unique coping mechanism allows her to process her memories and pain. For ages 11-14, this book provides a comforting and realistic portrayal of mourning, showing how personal interests can be a powerful tool for healing and maintaining a connection with someone who is gone.
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Sign in to write a reviewThe book deals directly with the death of a parent. The approach is secular and psychological. Sierra's 'praying' to A.L. is a journaling technique, a way to talk to someone who also knew profound loss, not a religious act. The resolution is realistic and hopeful. Sierra does not 'get over' her grief, but she learns to live with it, finding ways to honor her father's memory while continuing to grow.
An introverted or thoughtful child, aged 11-14, who has recently experienced the death of a parent. It is especially suited for a child who finds comfort in hobbies, writing, or history, and who may be struggling to voice their feelings out loud.
The book is emotionally direct from the first page. Parents should be prepared for its honest depiction of a child's pain, which may bring up their own feelings of grief. It can be read cold, but it will likely open up conversations about loss, memories, and healthy ways to mourn. A parent hears their child say, "No one understands what I'm going through," or notices the child has become withdrawn and is internalizing their grief after a significant loss.
A younger reader (11-12) will likely connect most with the core sadness and the specific memories Sierra shares. An older reader (13-14) may appreciate the more complex themes of identity formation after loss and the sophisticated, unique way Sierra chooses to cope with her emotions.
Unlike many grief books, this story's unique hook is the protagonist's use of a historical figure as a silent confidant. This elevates the story from a simple narrative of loss to an exploration of how intellectual passions and shared interests can become a lifeline and a powerful tool for healing.
Thirteen-year-old Sierra is reeling from the sudden death of her father. She and her father shared a deep interest in the life of Abraham Lincoln. To process her grief and feel close to her dad, Sierra begins a one-sided correspondence with A.L., writing letters to him as if he were a confidant. The narrative weaves between Sierra's present-day struggles with friends, school, and her changed family dynamic, and her poignant memories of her father.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.