On the Day His Daddy Left

December 1, 2000
K-Gr 2-Danny's father is moving out. Throughout the appointed day, the anxious child looks at a secret question he has written down and shows it to his teacher, a friend, his father, and his mother. The adults, in turn, reassure him that the answer to his question, "Is it my fault?" is "A BIG NO." His parents admit that the situation is not perfect, but explain that they will work through it and answer any questions that Danny might have. As time passes, and he has time to become accustomed to the situation, he becomes less concerned with his secret question. The realistic, full-color illustrations subtly capture the characters' emotions. An honest, soothing treatment of a situation faced by many children.-Susan Marie Pitard, Weezie Library for Children, Nantucket Atheneum, MA

Copyright 2000 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2000
Gr. 1-3. Guilt colors Danny's face on the day his dad moves out of the house in preparation for a divorce. "Is it my fault?" Danny writes on a piece of paper. His face also reflects the anger, resentment, and sadness he feels as the difficult day progresses. His teacher, a playmate, and his parents reassure him that the divorce is not his fault, but they only make Danny feel "kind of" better. The Adamses maintain their honesty as the book telescopes the traumatic day (and the first year), and acknowledges that only time, adjustment to the new situation, and love can temper Danny's pain. This valuable, therapeutic book speaks volumes on a few thoughtful, briefly worded pages, with Johnson's caring, photographically realistic artwork not only mirroring the people and surroundings in Danny's life but also his intense emotions. A final page addresses adults about children's concerns.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2000, American Library Association.)