A Terrible Thing Happened: A Story for Children Who Have Witnessed Violence or Trauma Book

Sherman Smith saw the most terrible thing happen. At first he tried to forget about it, but soon something inside him started to bother him. He felt nervous for no reason. Sometimes his stomach hurt. He had bad dreams. And he started to feel angry and do mean things, which got him in trouble. Then he met Ms. Maple, who helped him talk about the terrible thing that he had tried to forget. Now Sherman is feeling much better.

This gently told and tenderly illustrated story is for children who have witnessed any kind of violent or traumatic episode, including physical abuse, school or gang violence, accidents, homicide, suicide, and natural disasters such as floods or fire. An afterward for parents and other caregivers offers extensive suggestions for helping traumatized children, including a list of other sources that focus on specific events.

TOPICS INCLUDE: To all children who struggle with the aftermath of tragedy, and to their dedicated caregivers

Parent Council Reviews

When a traumatic event occurs in childhood, a child may have difficulty expressing and understanding feelings. The young raccoon in this story helps to depict the feelings and thoughts associated with trauma. A counselor uses art and play as a means of helping the raccoon understand the event. There is a section for parents about how to understand what children may be experiencing and how to help them. A wonderful book for traumatized children and their parents, it is also an excellent resource to help children understand counseling. 2000, Magination Press, $14.95. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: S. Latson SOURCE: Parent Council Volume 8