Sophie's New Song

In this picture book, a young girl deals with the loss and confusion of having an absent parent. She finds a new way to cope with a situation she can't control and the adults in her life can't full explain to her. The circumstances of having an absent parent can vary, and this book would appeal to families in different situations such as when a parent becomes absent after divorce or separation, incarceration, or a problem with addiction. Children in these situations might be like Sophie, where their parent might come in and out of their life, or they may have never met their parent. This book benefits children by normalizing the experience of having a parent who is absent and provides a language for children to talk about their feelings. Most importantly, it can help children and families communicate about a difficult topic. Sophie's New Song also includes a Note to Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals that provides helpful discussion questions and information on positive coping skills for children and families.