Fireflies

Author: Ginger Sanders
Genre: Children

Fireflies is a wonderful little book of a family with a loss. It explains death to a child in a simple way, showing hope and love. Tyler is puzzled why his little brother left to go to heaven, but after a friend shared with him about what death really is, Tyler was comforted and had peace. The book also has a Memory Page in the back of the book, along with 'How to Lead a Child to Christ'. Author has released copyright on this page so it may be copied and shared in a children's ministry area. 
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The illustrations are bright and colorful, giving joy to the story. Little hidden messages are scattered throughout the book. ​

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Reviewer: Gee Dixon

Ginger Sanders touches on a subject that is hard to explain to children, which is the loss of a loved one.

When Tyler’s little brother passes he does not understand why. A friend comes by and talks to him and tells him that it is like when he catches his fireflies and releases them. The jar is empty but they are still alive, like when God called Trevor home to heaven. 

This story is very touching. I will be reading this to my son. I look forward to sharing more stories by Ginger Sanders. 

I definitely rate this as a 5!

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Reviewer: Mary Hosmar

This is, to say the least, a very interesting book in many ways. Its bright cover and lively illustrations will attract readers of any age. While the word “death” is never mentioned, the explanation of the departure of a little brother who went to heaven is clearly told using the analogy of fireflies in a jar, something to which many children may be able to relate.

Although this is a picture book, the language used is often beyond a young child’s reading level. But then, this is a book which should not be read by children of any age. It should be read to them. Both the story and illustrations provide lot of opportunity for in-depth discussions, sharing beliefs, and reassurance. 

At the back of the book is a page for parents entitled Leading A Child To Christ. While this is very worthwhile information, it is not what the book is about. I would have liked to have seen a page giving tips on how to talk to a child about loss and bereavement which is in keeping with the book’s content.  Despite this drawback, Fireflies can be a great help to parents who have been faced with having to explain to children why one of their loved ones is no longer here.

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Reviewer: Margaret Welwood

A realistic portrayal of grief, comfort and hope for little ones.

"I don’t like it that he died. I like it that he went to Heaven." (May, 4 years old)

As a young four-year-old, May was both touched by the sadness of little Trevor’s passing and unable to grasp the symbolism. However, she was moved by the story and intrigued by the thought of Heaven.

As her grandmother, I appreciated the light touch on the subject of death and the portrayal of “pure” grief—free of bitterness, guilt and regret. I also appreciated the focus on the kindness of other people (“weep with those that weep”), and the words of comfort and hope.

I was given a free copy of this book, but the views expressed are my own.

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