A Heartfelt Journey Through Grief: A Review of Lolo’s Light by Liz Garton Scanlon
As someone who has largely stepped away from children’s literature, diving into Lolo’s Light by Liz Garton Scanlon felt like rediscovering an old friend in a familiar yet surprisingly thought-provoking way. I stumbled upon this gem while rearranging the children’s section at my workplace—a task I initially approached with indifference. But there it was, shining among the other titles, as if it knew I needed to find it.
At its core, Lolo’s Light tells the poignant story of Millie, a spirited 13-year-old who faces heartbreak in a way many adults might hesitate to articulate. Millie’s journey begins with the exciting responsibility of babysitting her neighbor’s four-month-old baby, an experience filled with anticipation and pride. However, this joy transforms into an overwhelming wave of sorrow as Millie learns that the baby has tragically passed away from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This sudden shift into grief plunges Millie into a deep abyss of emotions—guilt, shame, and an unshakable sense of loss.
What struck me most about this narrative was how authentically Scanlon captured the complex tapestry of grief. As someone who has witnessed or experienced loss, it felt as if Millie’s thoughts and feelings were laid bare with both tenderness and raw honesty. The exploration of grief—its unpredictability and the different ways it manifests—feels universal, making it relatable for both young readers and adults. Scanlon has a remarkable talent for articulating feelings that are often challenging to express, especially for children who may be encountering them for the first time.
The writing style is beautifully understated yet rich, enabling readers to connect deeply with Millie’s emotional landscape. I appreciated how the pacing allowed the heavy themes to resonate without feeling overwhelming. The narrative invites reflection rather than rushing toward resolution, which is essential given the subject matter. There are moments of lightness interspersed throughout Millie’s journey, reminding us that healing is possible even amidst profound sorrow.
One particularly memorable segment involves Millie’s internal dialogue about her perceived role in the baby’s death. The rawness of her guilt struck a chord in me, evoking a sense of empathy that lingered long after I turned the last page. It’s in those moments that the book shines, as it doesn’t shy away from the complexities of grief but rather embraces them, offering both solace and understanding.
Lolo’s Light is undoubtedly a children’s book, but it transcends age barriers. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone grappling with loss, whether they are directly affected or wish to support someone who is. I believe educators, parents, and anyone intrigued by the intricacies of human emotion will find this book both enlightening and heartwarming.
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a profound, moving exploration of grief wrapped in the guise of a children’s story, look no further than Lolo’s Light. It invites readers to confront their feelings and, perhaps, to find light in the dark corners of sorrow. This reading experience reminded me just how vital it is to embrace such difficult topics with compassion, making this book a resonant addition to any library—regardless of one’s age. ❤️