Jackie Azúa Kramer Books

This profoundly moving tale about a grieving boy and an imaginary gorilla makes real the power of talking about loss. On the day of his mother's funeral, a young boy conjures the very visitor he needs to see: a gorilla. Wise and gentle, the gorilla stays on to answer the heart-heavy questions the boy hesitates to ask his father: Where did his mother go? Will she come back home? Will we all die? Yet with the gorilla's friendship, the boy slowly begins to discover moments of comfort in tending flowers, playing catch, and climbing trees. Most of all, the gorilla knows that it helps to simply talk about the loss-especially with those who share your grief and who may feel alone, too. Author Jackie Azúa Kramer's quietly thoughtful text and illustrator Cindy Derby's beautiful impressionistic artwork depict how this tender relationship leads the boy to open up to his father and find a path forward. Told entirely in dialogue, this direct and deeply affecting picture book will inspire conversations about grief, empathy, and healing beyond the final hope-filled scene.

Set against the backdrop of sweltering summer days, the narrative explores the lives of characters seeking solace from the oppressive heat. Their interactions reveal deeper themes of connection, longing, and the pursuit of comfort amidst life's challenges. The story unfolds with rich imagery and emotional depth, inviting readers to reflect on the significance of relationships and the small moments that bring relief and joy. Through vivid storytelling, the book captures the essence of summer as both a season of warmth and a time for introspection.