Daddy's Promise

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James Metz, MD
University of Pennsylvania Health System
Last Modified: November 1, 2001

Authors: Cindy Klein Cohen and John T. Heiney Illustrator: Michael J. Gordon Publisher: Promise Publications ISBN: 0-9656498-0-6 OncoLink Rating:

Daddy's Promise is an excellent children's book that addresses the difficult subject of death of a parent. Cindy Klein Cohen is a Child Life Specialist whose concentration is in helping children and families cope with serious illness and loss. She also experienced the death of her husband when their son was 2 years old. John Heiney is a communications professional who has collaborated with Cindy Klein Cohen on numerous educational and therapeutic programs for children. The authors state, "our hope is that this book will help open a healthy dialogue between adults and children where loss has occurred, where the mystery and fear of death can be replaced with comfort and hope."

Daddy's Promise is the story of a little boy's journey to understand the death of his father. It addresses some of the most important questions asked by children such as: "Was it my fault? Why did he die? Where do people go when they die?" The book encourages open dialogue between a child and a surviving parent. The book emphasizes open communication between the child and his mother. It also utilizes the child's dreams to teach important points to children.

Daddy's Promise helps open dialogue about this serious and difficult issue. It encourages children to discuss their feelings about a lost loved one and helps parents prepare for the difficult questions. It is highly recommended by OncoLink.