Beyond the Ridge Book

Beyond the Ridge is definitely a different kind of children's book as it discusses a topic that is usually kept from children as adults are afraid that young children cannot handle the idea of death. This book is about a grandmother who is very old, ill and going to die shortly. However, the way that death is portrayed in this book is a wonderful way for children to approach the topic because instead of the idea being a dark and dreary one it is brought about it a very light and spiritual way.

The book discusses the old woman and how she is torn between following her mothers voice beyond the ridge and staying with her family who she can hear crying and begging her to stay with them on earth. However, the old woman knows her rightful place and goes to seek her mother and other loved ones who she has lost. Although Heaven is never specifically stated as the final destination, the idea of the ultimate place of happiness is brought about in this book. This is one topic that might be a little controversial in schools however since it is never specifically stated I think it could be used in a proper way.

My favorite part about this book is that death is more celebrated as a life well lived. The book teaches us to remember to that our loved ones spirits are always with us because spirits never die since they are never actually born. This means that our loved ones are with us even if their body has physically passed on. I would definitely recommend this book for any family going through the loss of a family member or friend. Paul Goble really did a wonderful job with this one.