Kate Beaton

Illustrated by: Sydney Smith

A deeply moving picture book about a young mother and her family who find strength, resilience, and even joy in the face of sorrow, from bestselling author Kate Beaton and renowned artist Sydney Smith

Rebecca lives in a bright and bustling home with her family on an island, where their days are full of work and also stories and laughter.

Then, one wintry day, her husband disappears into the icy sea.

Sorrow follows Rebecca home, haunting empty chairs and quiet moments. But life must go on. There is still work to be done: new rooms to build, firewood to chop.

Many years pass, and Rebecca’s children have children of their own. The house is filled with light and noise once again.

Rebecca grows older and older, until one day, Sorrow pays her a visit. But there is no fear, for Sorrow is now an old friend. So they sit together as the sun sets and watch the fireplace flames flicker down to the last ember.

Inspired by acclaimed author Kate Beaton’s family history and stunningly illustrated by Hans Christian Andersen-award-winner Sydney Smith, this exquisite story tells a tale of not just loss, but of the life that blooms after it. It’s a story of strength and resilience, of determination and survival, and of the timelessness of family and love.