This is not the time to be alone.

A little girl grieves the loss of her mother, but she can't grieve alone.

When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva, laden with cakes and stories, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold, where she is comforted by her community. By the end of the book, she feels stronger and more nourished, and she understands the beautiful tradition. Then, when sees her father sitting alone, she is able to comfort him in his time of need. Sitting Shiva is a beautiful, heartfelt story about grief and loss, but also about comfort and community. It shows that no matter what religion you practice, we are all more similar than we are different.

A note from the author explains the ritual of sitting shiva, a seven-day period of mourning for the death of a family member observed in Jewish homes. (From Orca Book Publishers)

Sitting Shiva is for ages 3 to 5.

Erin Silver is a Toronto-based journalist, author and blogger.

Michelle Theodore is an Edmonton artist and illustrator.