Reviewed by Brad Manker
Review Source: Teaching for Change
Book Author: Azam Mahdavi
Empty and Me is a bilingual (Arabic/English) children’s book that personifies grief in an interesting way. Azam Mahdavi’s sensitive text, paired with the evocative illustrations by Maryam Tahmasebi, combine to create a powerful and healing experience for young readers. Empty and Me is a valuable tool for parents, teachers, and therapists working with children who have experienced loss. It provides a gentle introduction to a difficult topic and offers hope for the future.
The book’s visual journey is as compelling as its narrative. The early pages are dominated by muted tones and vast empty spaces, mirroring the protagonist’s feelings of loss and isolation. The girl’s feelings are personified by a large, white blob whose name is “Empty.” Empty literally fills the void between the girl and her father at the dinner table and at the amusement park, holding her hand throughout. As the story progresses and the child begins to cope with her grief, the illustrations gradually change, becoming more colorful. This visual evolution beautifully reflects the emotional arc of the story, offering a tangible representation of hope and healing.
The final page seems not like an ending, but some sort of tantalizing beginning that may lead to open-ended discussions: “This is the last picture of us and the first pot we planted together.” Who is “us”? Has Empty gone? Will Empty return or remain forever?
This book is about death, specifically, but also the feelings related to loss, grief, and change. Its true strength lies in its ability to validate a child’s feelings without overwhelming them. The combination of text and illustration creates a safe space for young readers to explore their emotions and understand that grief is a normal part of life.
Brad Manker serves as a fellow with Teaching for Change. He is an educator, curriculum designer, and independent researcher with a background in elementary education.
Find more recommended books on our Grief booklist.
Empty and Me: A Tale of Friendship and Loss by Azam Mahdavi
Published by Lee & Low Books on October 03, 2023
Genres: Grief
Reading Level: Early Childhood, Grade K, Grades 1-2
ISBN: 9781643796222
Review Source: Teaching for Change
Publisher's Synopsis: After a young girl's mother dies, Empty appears and silently takes up the big blank space left behind. For some time, the girl can't connect with her dad or any friends, and Empty is her closest companion. But then, a happy reminder of her mom pops up one day, and this bit of joy helps the little girl open up to the world around her. Empty stays around, but the little girl starts to connect with others and share new moments of happiness with them.
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