When a loved one dies, grief can isolate us as if we’re hiding under an umbrella of sadness. This touching and wise story will comfort the readers who need it most.
Anna never goes anywhere without her umbrella. Not since the stormy day of her father’s funeral. Under her umbrella, she feels safe—safe to be angry and sad. She refuses to put away her umbrella no matter the weather, both outside and in. And then one rainy day she notices a boy getting drenched, and when she invites him under the umbrella with her, things begin to change.
This heartfelt story explores how grief, like an umbrella, protects us, but also blocks light from our lives. However, with time and healing and help from a friend, we can lower our umbrella to see the sun. And maybe even a rainbow.
Amanda Driscoll is a graphic designer and has been an artist in one form or another her entire life. She is the author and illustrator of Duncan the Story Dragon, Wally Does Not Want a Haircut, and Klondike, Do Not Eat Those Cupcakes. Amanda lives outside of Louisville with her two children and two dogs. To find out more about Amanda, visit her at AmandaDriscoll.com or on Twitter at @AmandaDriscoll6.
View titles by Amanda Driscoll
"The umbrella makes for a tangible representation of the isolation and frustration that often accompany loss. The appropriately muted, uncluttered artwork sets a somber tone; Uribe has opted not to fully show Anna’s face until she meets Henry—an effective way to convey her feelings of alienation." —Kirkus
"This poignant picture book uses simple, effective text to capture young readers’ attention. The emotional journey is clear and relatable. The digital illustrations are soft and evocative, subtly emphasizing Anna’s hidden emotions. Ultimately, this story offers a gentle reminder that sadness and anger, though powerful, are not permanent. It’s an affirming message for children experiencing grief, especially after the loss of a parent. A moving and beautifully illustrated picture book, recommended for addressing themes of grief and healing with young readers." —School Library Journal
When a loved one dies, grief can isolate us as if we’re hiding under an umbrella of sadness. This touching and wise story will comfort the readers who need it most.
Anna never goes anywhere without her umbrella. Not since the stormy day of her father’s funeral. Under her umbrella, she feels safe—safe to be angry and sad. She refuses to put away her umbrella no matter the weather, both outside and in. And then one rainy day she notices a boy getting drenched, and when she invites him under the umbrella with her, things begin to change.
This heartfelt story explores how grief, like an umbrella, protects us, but also blocks light from our lives. However, with time and healing and help from a friend, we can lower our umbrella to see the sun. And maybe even a rainbow.
Creators
Amanda Driscoll is a graphic designer and has been an artist in one form or another her entire life. She is the author and illustrator of Duncan the Story Dragon, Wally Does Not Want a Haircut, and Klondike, Do Not Eat Those Cupcakes. Amanda lives outside of Louisville with her two children and two dogs. To find out more about Amanda, visit her at AmandaDriscoll.com or on Twitter at @AmandaDriscoll6.
View titles by Amanda Driscoll
"The umbrella makes for a tangible representation of the isolation and frustration that often accompany loss. The appropriately muted, uncluttered artwork sets a somber tone; Uribe has opted not to fully show Anna’s face until she meets Henry—an effective way to convey her feelings of alienation." —Kirkus
"This poignant picture book uses simple, effective text to capture young readers’ attention. The emotional journey is clear and relatable. The digital illustrations are soft and evocative, subtly emphasizing Anna’s hidden emotions. Ultimately, this story offers a gentle reminder that sadness and anger, though powerful, are not permanent. It’s an affirming message for children experiencing grief, especially after the loss of a parent. A moving and beautifully illustrated picture book, recommended for addressing themes of grief and healing with young readers." —School Library Journal
