This book is one of the newest in a beloved series of books based on the adventures of one little boy, the title character Caillou.
Caillou is adored by many children, including my own. I am not sure if it is the bright, primary-color based illustrations that appeal the most or the simple sentences conveyed the exact same way that a child would speak in real life. Whatever the formula is, it works and well.
This latest tale touches upon a sensitive subject; divorce. Caillou visits his cousins Amanda and Emilio whose parents are divorced and while the children play together they talk about what has been happening. Sandwiched between “play” talk, his cousins talk about their feelings and concerns, how Emilio was mad at first and didn’t know why, or how they still see their dad on the weekends.
The book is excellent for children who have friends whose parents have separated, used as an aide by parents to try and help their children make sense out of the situation. Younger children who are directly experiencing the changes brought on by divorce in their family might also be comforted by the familiar figures of Caillou and his cousins discussing the matter as well.
This book will be available to purchase May 1st, 2010.
Reading level: ages 3+
Page Count: 24 pages
Publisher: Chouette Publishing (May 1 2010)
Publisher’s synopsis: A gentle discussion about the subject of divorce ensues when the curious Caillou asks his cousins Amanda and Emilio why their mommy doesn’t live with their daddy. As the children continue to play, Caillou learns about divorce, having two homes, and the feelings experienced by his cousins. He learns that it is important for Emilio and Amanda to remember that it’s not their fault their mommy and daddy separated—their mother would always be their mommy, and their father would always be their daddy.
About the Author: Christine L’Heureux is the founder of Chouette Publishing and the author of several books, including Caillou: Good Night, Caillou: Happy Birthday, Caillou: I Will Always Love You, Caillou: Just Like Daddy, and Caillou: Play with Me. Pierre Brignaud is the illustrator of Caillou: Potty Time, Caillou: I Will Always Love You, Caillou: Just Like Daddy, and Caillou Moves Around. They both live in Montreal, Quebec.