Publisher's Synopsis
Working through the grief of losing a child unexpectedly inspired Gamaw Pamaw to share her cathartic story about the natural cycle of life for a robin family, tragic losses, and renewing commitment to loved ones who need us. "A Robin's Beginning" will help provide psychological healing to children who have lost a classmate and parents who have lost a child. The story may also help children realize hopefulness in the natural cycle of life. In an era when most children are distracted by digital devices, Gamaw Pamaw awakens childrens' powers of observation, opening their eyes to nature's beauty and the cycle of renewing life all around them every day. The author wrote "A Robin's Beginning" as part of the process of healing from the unexpected death of her daughter, Melissa, in 2009. Gamaw Pamaw's poignant story is complemented by the stunningly beautiful cover inviting us inside for an enchanting story, most appropriate for one of the most cutting-edge children's books in a decade. The cover itself could spawn hours of discussion about what is there. Her action projects also: A) provide a healthy framework for children to become absorbed in studies as a way to help heal from losing a friend or fellow student at a tender age; B) integrates studies with a writing journal; and, C) complement America's First Lady's gardening and "Let's Move" action programs to help children lose weight and build strength. Perhaps one of the best examples of conflict-resolution story-telling for children. The Appendix action projects will also help children develop writing skills by integrating their observations about art, colors, math, nature, reading, and science into a daily or weekly journal. Journaling can be both therapeutic as well as educational. The artwork itself can be used as a springboard of discussion points about the cycle of life and what it means. The exceptionally fresh approach lets elementary students have so much fun that they quickly forget they are learning while healing their psyche and soul. Students learn real multi-tasking, always studying a main subject coupled with developing writing skills. The concept is supported by anthropological and psychological data showing that language skills are best developed at a tender age. Includes action projects for individuals or entire classrooms to help focus on writing clarity and keeping a journal for each subject. The overall plot, what happens to a robin family one exciting Spring, is a drama played out in backyards all across America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and everywhere else all year long - something all students can begin personally observing in their own neighborhoods. True to the biology of birds, the book provides many opportunities for learning and discussion points. Safety in a storm, learning from mistakes, recovery, and a hopeful future are but a few. What does the helping hand symbolize to you?
