Starr has always been brave—at least, that’s what everyone keeps saying. But ever since her dad got sick, life has been anything but normal. When he dies suddenly, Starr finds herself buried in confusion, anger, and sadness she doesn’t know how to express. She tries to stay strong during the funeral and at home, even when her heart is breaking.
Then one night, Starr finds her mom crying alone, and something shifts. In a quiet, heartfelt moment, they cry together, and Starr begins to understand that grieving isn’t weakness. It’s love.
Okay to Cry is a tender story about loss, emotional honesty, and the healing power of shared grief. It validates the full range of emotions children experience after a death and reminds readers that it’s okay to feel and okay to let those feelings out.
A powerful tool for parents, educators, and counselors supporting children through grief and change.
Written by Diana Hutsell Illustrated by Rubina Akter
As a therapist, Skye Squirrel has been a great interactive tool. Kids are able to learn about and identify different emotions. The changing of Skye Squirrel’s tails keeps them excited, engaged, and involved.
Jenny Gaylon, LPC.
I am an elementary school teacher, and this is a great book to address blindness with my students. It is very kid-friendly. It teaches a great lesson about having compassion and accepting others.
Mistie O.
An inspirational story with a message that my family and I will remember for a long time. Great storytelling of a sensitive subject. I highly recommend it!
Stephanie D.
Grief feels like someone has left you and can be confusing to young children. This story communicates wonderfully that all emotions are okay to feel.
Karen M
My 10 yr old was struggling one day, and I teasingly told her she needed Annoyed Skye, which lit up her face. She ran and got her My Emotion Squirrel with his “annoyed” tail and gave it a big hug!
Sarah S.
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