Children are expert questioners. The way they wonder and enquire about the sights, sounds and experiences of the world around them is delightful, tenacious and intriguing. It is also important work as they learn, grow and explore and we can always search an answer for topics beyond our own knowledge as parents, carers and leaders.
But what about the deeper questions of life, loss and death? The questions we ourselves have too? The things we don't understand and where a quick online search isn't sufficient at all...
Mike Peacock's brand new story book 'The Party in Heaven' bravely muses over many of these questions. It's a thoughtful and honest story-within-a-story, that takes place in heaven as the 'littlest angel', Sprout, comes with his big, tricky questions to Castor, one of the 'wisest angels'.
Mike Peacock's text is full of warmth, truth and humour. We aren't rushed to a neat, quick conclusion, instead we learn with Sprout about friendship and sadness, loss and hope, and ultimately the kindness and compassion of Jesus, who welcomes all of our difficult questions.
Abigail Banks' gorgeous and absorbing illustrations fill each page with twinkle, colour and emotion. The stories, characters, concepts and places are vividly brought to life. I got so excited for heaven and I believe you will too!
This is a much needed book for any child suffering a bereavement, but it also creates a vital space for all of us to pause, consider and focus in on the tough stuff of life; to be real with our children and ourselves. And to be introduced to viewing pain, loss and sorrow through the perspective of heaven - that there's hope - the wonderful promise of eternal life with Christ!
Jesus said to [Martha], “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me will have life even if they die."
John 11:25 NCV
