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"Going on a Journey" is a new book by Susan Harrison with illustrations by Conrad Kaufman.
(Courtesy of Susan Harrison)
KALAMAZOO, MI -- Grief, loss and illness are topics that children face as well as adults, but there are fewer resources to help children cope with these issues.
Local author and singer-songwriter Susan Harrison and artist Conrad Kaufman have collaborated on a new book "Going on a Journey," which is designed to help children deal with grief and loss. The book comes with a CD of Harrison singing the story.
The book will be released at a book release party and concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 31, at First Congregational Church, 345 W. Michigan Ave. in downtown Kalamazoo. The event will include a celebration of 10 years of music therapy at Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. The concert features Harrison, Carolyn Koebel, Gretchen Ross, Matt Gross, Calvin Ruff and others.
"The intention is for the reader to put themselves into the story as they travel along at their own pace, therefore the book is intentionally generic," Harrison said. "The woods are a metaphor for the darkness that can surround us in times of sadness, and the story gives the reader mission to travel along at their own pace while reminding them that, when they are ready, they can reach out for the help they need to make it through."
While the project is tied to Hospice, Harrison notes that the underlying message can be applied to many situations children face, from bullying to family divorce to disappointment.
"The hope is that healers will find this a useful tool in their toolbox when communicating with anyone who is grieving," she said.
The book signing and concert are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Donations will be used to support Journeys, a Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan grief support program for children and teens.
For more information, call 269-345-0273 or visit www.hospiceswmi.org. You can also contact Harrison at 269-344-4428 or visit palamazoo.com.
Linda S. Mah is a reporter for the Kalamazoo Gazette. Reach her at 269-303-6567 or her at lmah@mlive.com. You can follow her on Twitter.