This book, “When Death Enters a Family,” is a timely story on a serious subject that is all too familiar to so many families: the subject of death. All too often, children and teens lose someone they love. They feel lost, angry and hopeless, and they do not understand what is happening to them and what they will do, following the loss. The author, Hazel Gayle-Samuels tells the true story of a 15 year-old girl when she lost one of the most important persons in her life, her father. It gives a clear description of her emotions and feelings and chronicles the activities from the point when the news was first told to her through a period following the funeral.
This book comes with an alphabet book as a companion which explains some of the terms used in the story. The story is short which makes it an easy read; it moves quickly into the experiences and provides an interesting view of the family. The author gives a glimpse into the lives of not only the adolescent girl, but also sheds light into those of her mother and sisters. It shows how each family member handled the death of this person who had been such an integral part of their lives. You can almost feel the pain and agony that they experience and you can place yourself at the scenes as you peer into the mind and thoughts of Jasmine. It will evoke feelings that you did not realize were there as you compare and contrast your personal story of loss. It gives hope and strength in the knowledge that you will be all right; it might be a rough period but eventually the light will shine through.
This book, along with its companion, is a must for the child as well as the preteen; even a teenager will be able to identify with Jasmine’s experiences. Given the fact that death is such a painful but daily part of our society, this book may be used not only by parents and students but even by educators who want to provide a theme as they teach writing. I strongly recommend this book to all those who have lost a loved one or those who simply enjoy a good book; so, grab a box of tissue, settle down and just allow your emotions to move you into an experience that you will not soon forget.