The Gift of Gerbert's Feathers by Meaghann WeaverMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
I expected a quick children's book about a Goose named Gerbert but was surprised when the first pages referred to different Children's Psychology and Oncology agencies and the American Psychological Association. I had the, "What have I got myself into ", feeling?" (Probably the one you're having right now.)
We dive in immediately to the story of the birth of little Gerbert who is, in fact, a goose, as he emerges from his egg to the great celebration of his family. He's a little bit on the small side but full of spunk and energy. He plays, loves his family and learns Goose ways. Especially about migration. As a Canadian, I know quite a lot about it too. Every year, in the Autumn, I love to watch all the Geese fly south for the Winter to head for warmer weather. They fly in a V-shape because all that flying is hard work and they have the strongest Goose at the front to protect the weaker, smaller ones from the harsh, strong winds. Gerbert's Dad is at the front of their V during the first year Gerbert goes South with his family. Definitely a time for admiration and family pride. And Gerbert dreams of the day when he'll be big enough to be the Protector in the front, just like his Dad.
In fact, Gerbert's family is so close and loving that they have made up a little song just for themselves.
“In sun and rain and ice and snow,
feather to feather,
we’re always together.”
However, not long after Winter is over and Gerbert's family has returned to their Northern home they begin to notice some changes in Gerbert. He's lost his appetite, even for his favorite foods, he doesn't have the same strength to play and his feathers are starting to fall out. And when I saw the first illustration by Mikki Butterley of Gerbert laying sick in his nest is when my first tear fell.
People die and many of them are children. Through this short children's book, you will find the guidance and encouragement needed to guide your family and help them face the inevitable; the sickness and death of a child or any family member. It is simple but brilliantly written with a gentle, loving vibe through the whole thing and will help you find a way through the tragedies of a severe illness within a family.
Gerbert's story and his ceremony with the feathers he's been shedding (I won't give away any more than that), help us to face these tragedies and make the most of our time together as a family to strengthen and unite us. While the writers are always encouraging us not to avoid the questions and to revel in every second we have together to love each other.
Migrating away from a harsh Winter to a warm, sunny place where we meet with those we love who have gone before us is used as a metaphor for death and traveling to Heaven where, like Gerbert's Family's song says, "we are always together." It doesn't come right out and mention God and Heaven but sets it's story on Bible principles of Eternal Life, Resurrection, and Family, leaving the door wide open for you to insert all these things in if you wish to.
I conclude by saying that I hate that this book is necessary but so grateful it's available. I personally have been through a great deal of family grief (though I have not had a child die) and this book hits the mark not just for those who are children in age, but still children in our hearts. (All of us will have to say good-bye to our parents at some time). I've learned that to ignore and run from sickness and death while it's occurring is a regret that will linger and you do NOT need!
I received this book from Magination Press through Netgalley for free in exchange for an honest review and I'm so grateful I did because I found my own healing within its pages and Gerbert's story. I'm quite sure I'll never watch migrating Canada Geese quite the same way again.
Thank you for taking the time to read another one of my reviews.
Sincerely, Laura-Lee
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