Life can be hard for all of us, no matter our circumstances. For kids, having the framework to deal with the tough topics is not always obvious or readily available. Sometimes, just hearing another person’s story is enough to help ease the pain. Whether it’s dealing with a parent with a recent cancer diagnosis or making sense of a loved one who was recently incarcerated, knowing you’re not alone can be a more comfortable way to approach a subject with a child.
Knox County Public Library recently published picture book suggestions for tough topics on everything from bullying to military deployment available at www.knoxlib.org/toughtopics. If a subject isn’t on the list, just ask a librarian for suggestions. That’s what librarians love to do.
Looking for more help? Try NoveList, a readers’ advisory tool (library card required), or Ask-a-Librarian, one-on-one chat with a Knox County Public Library librarian.
Mary Pom Claiborne is assistant director for marketing, communications and development for Knox County Public Library. She writes a Wednesday feature for KnoxTNToday.com.