Michael's Mommy Has Breast Cancer

Rating:
Summary: Frightening illustrations
Review: The text of this picture book for young children about a parent's cancer is fine--it addresses many common concerns of children with cancer in the family (feelings such as anger and fear, questions such as "Did I cause the cancer?"). However, the book's amateurish illustrations undercut its reassuring message. The images of the characters, especially those of the ill mother, are distorted, and their colors are murky and dark. The overall effect is disturbing--even frightening--especially for young children.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent Tool for Kids
Review: This book is great! It gets right down to the basics that face a child when Mom has breast cancer or, I would think, any cancer. It is simple, easy to read and understand, with childlike drawings that ease kids into the realization that Mom and the family are going to be going through some changes that may be upsetting, but it's all going to be okay. A very reassuring book for kids.