The Glow – Life, Death and the Light Within

Description

The Glow – Life, Death and the Light Within

A story to help with navigating the concept of death for children.

Discover a beautifully illustrated picture book that helps children understand death and dying in a comforting, spiritual way. The Glow uses the metaphor of an inner light—a unique “glow” that connects all living things—to explain the cycle of life, loss, and lasting love. Perfect for parents, teachers, and caregivers seeking a tender resource for explaining death to kids or supporting children’s grief.

Inside every person and every living thing shines a beautiful, loving glow. This unique light connects us to everything around us, guiding us through life with love and warmth. But one day, the glow must return home—a natural part of the journey we all share.

The Glow is a poetic story that gently introduces children to the concepts of life, death, and the light within. Through rhythmic verses and evocative imagery—like twinkling stars and inner glows—it reassures young readers that loved ones never truly leave us. Their light lives on in memories, in our hearts, and as part of our own glow.

Talking to children about death can feel overwhelming, but experts agree it’s essential. Open, honest conversations help reduce fear, anxiety, and confusion around loss. As end-of-life educator Tilly Stevens notes:

“From the moment we are born right through until the moment we die, we are continually exposed to the possibility of change, loss, and grief… The Glow offers adults and children a tender way to begin and continue conversations that help to reduce the fear around death and dying, encouraging ways to remain connected to those we love who have died. The notes for adults in the back are invaluable.”

The book includes comprehensive parent/teacher notes with guidance on:

• Understanding grief (it’s not just sadness—children may show it through behavior changes)
• Being honest: Use clear words like “died” to avoid confusion
• Supporting grieving children: Give space, hugs, and reassurance it’s not their fault
• Ways to remember loved ones: Memory boxes, photos, or talking about happy times

This spiritual yet inclusive approach adapts to your family’s beliefs—whether viewing the “light” as a soul, energy, God, or divine love.

Perfect For…

• Families experiencing loss (of a person, pet, or loved one)
• Parents searching for children’s books on grief and loss
• Teachers facilitating discussions on emotions and life cycles
• Anyone helping kids process big questions like “Where do we go when we die?”

Pair with companion books from Wildling Books:

• How Do I Feel? – A dictionary of over 60 emotions to help name feelings during grief
• Let It Go and Let It Flow – Healthy ways to release emotions

Perfect For

• Measures 21cm x 26cm
• 48 pages of full colour
• Paperback
• From award-winning New Zealand author and illustrator, Craig Phillips

Never underestimate the power positive praise can have on a child. Giving positive praise to our children helps to reinforce behaviours, builds self confidence and self-esteem. When you praise your child, you are showing them how they can see themselves in a positive light, helping them to recognise when they have done well.
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