Ani's Light - by Tanu Shree Singh (Hardcover)

About the Book

One of Bank Street's 2021 Best Children's Books of the Year

Everything has turned dark. Will Ani find his light again?

Book Synopsis

One of Bank Street's 2021 Best Children's Books of the Year

This sensitive, hopeful story will help kids explore their sadness when a close family member is undergoing medical treatment, while highlighting sources of light that can bring stability during uncertain times. It is also a terrific resource for anyone who wants to understand the ups and downs of coping with a parent's illness.

Ani's stuck in a dark cloud because his mother hasn't been home. His friends and family try to brighten his mood, but nothing helps. When Mama finally comes back, but with her hair missing, Ani's light gets brighter and brighter, chasing away his darkness. The unconditional love between Ani and his mother shines through as the two enjoy their precious time together, whether it's forever, or just for now.

Includes a note from the author explaining ways to help a child through a family crisis.

Review Quotes

"With brevity and richness, Tanu Shree Singh beautifully describes a young boy's journey throughout his mom's battle with cancer in Ani's Light. Through thoughtful words and eye-catching illustrations, readers can feel Ani's pain and the darkness that fills his heart while Mama undergoes treatment for cancer. They can also celebrate joyfully with him as he welcomes her home. She conveys how her love will always be there to comfort him, even when she is not. That message is one of incredible value for a child of any age, and it's one that is likely to touch many of those who read this unique and heartfelt picture book."-- "San Francisco Book Review"

"This evocative and wise picture book, written by a psychology professor from India, is for children struggling to cope with the medical treatment of a parent... when Ani's gravely ill-looking mother returns from the hospital, light envelopes them both, and her advice to him is both realistic and inspiring... gives tips on how to handle children's fears and depression, starting with 'honesty matters.'" ­--Booklist-- "Booklist"

"Singh and Prabhat combine forces for an unflinchingly honest yet soothing book about a child and his mother's illness.... includes an author's note that stresses the importance of honesty in the face of difficult situations, from illness to divorce to death.... A hopeful, sadly necessary resource for children coping with a caregiver under medical treatment." --Kirkus Reviews-- "Kirkus Reviews"

About the Author

Tanu Shree Singh, PhD, is an assistant professor of psychology in the Department of Higher Education, Haryana, India. She completed her studies in positive psychology at Maharshi Dayanand University and writes extensively on issues related to parenting. Her passion for reading and getting more children to read led her to set up two libraries in Faridabad and Tirthan Valley. She lives in Faridabad, India. Visit her on Twitter @tanu75 and on Instagram @tanu.shree.singh.

Sandhya Prabhat, MFA, is an independent animator and illustrator from Chennai, India, now working in the Bay Area, California. She holds a master's degree in animation and digital arts from NYU Tisch School of the Arts and a bachelor's degree in literature. She has illustrated more than ten children's books. She also works on animation for TV and movies, and designs for social media platforms.
Visit sandhyaprabhat.com and visit her on Facebook and Instagram @sandhyaprabhat.