Author: Marcia W. Spilman

Publisher:

Published: 2016-04-09

Total Pages: 38

ISBN-13: 9781478723707

No matter your beliefs...whether you choose to read this book to your young grieving hearts as "fiction or non-fiction" this is a must read if you or a loved one has experienced a death. The book is simply timeless. ********************* This book is also unlike any other children's book regarding death. While most are about the process of healing & acceptance in the aftermath of losing someone they love. This book gives an opportunity for children to have some comfort for years to come & in particular during the holidays. The author leaves no question that she is a Christian & she wants her grandchildren to truly visualize the concept of her message. Albeit, she also stresses the main objective is to help grieving hearts; not change someone's views of religion. She has respect to the diversity of others views. With all that being said, this book does in fact focus on heaven. With an open mind, she wants readers to consider the literal definition of Heaven. The first death she can remember was at 9 years old & her grandfather passed away two days before Christmas. He was her Mom's father & it changed Christmas for many years to come as her Mom & others continued to mourn in particular during the holidays each year. She states that her worst death she witnessed her children suffer was that of her nephew, (sister's son) who was 18 yrs. old on December 7, 1995. Despite her faith & attempt to be positive it took everything her family had to function through Christmas that year and years to come. Five years later Spilman lost her father right before Easter & nine years after that her sister, who was 56 yrs. old, passed away. It was right as the holidays began before Thanksgiving. She needed a heart transplant. She left behind 5 beautiful grandchildren with her younger son. Four years later, Spilman's mom was gravely ill during Christmas and passed away two weeks later. The little ones in the family began to ask more questions. Are they sad at Christmas? Are they with Samson (Spilman's late 10 yr. old Newfoundland) in heaven? It is all too familiar to hear these fears & questions. ************************ While there are many holidays observed throughout the year, she chose select ones to express in her book. The goal is to attempt to give comfort with some visuals by adding a little magic for their heavy hearts. Moreover, she believes her book's message is to open the door for children to open their minds and create happiness for whatever holidays they may celebrate That is why her book can be an inspiration to many. Visit Spilman's FB page - HOLIDAYS IN HEAVEN-The Children's Book Websites: www.outskirtspress.com/holidaysinheaven.com www.holidaysinheaven.org