This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the story of Mina, a little girl who was very close to her grandmother and shared many special times with her. When her grandmother dies, Mina experiences the week of shiva from her perch in her favorite tree. Over the course of seven days, she sees and hears friends and neighbors coming together to help her family go through the mourning process. At first they are very sad, but by the end of the week they are able to tell sweet and funny stories about Grandma — and Mina is ready to abandon her perch and join the group, making French toast for everyone according to Grandma’s secret recipe.
This simple story speaks to children and adults alike. The illustrations are realistic, yet soft and easy to look at. The level of the text makes the book an excellent read-aloud for children ages 4 to 8. The story is particularly appropriate for children who have experienced the loss of a loved one, as it can be a source of gentle comfort.