A farewell doesn’t mean the end. Bella’s Light: A Story About Pet Loss and Love That Never Ends by Robert Kusserow is the story of two sister pups with a special bond, Bella and Lucy. They do absolutely everything together. One day, Bella feels something strange inside her. So, she says goodbye and begins a journey guided by a star. Along the way, animals teach her patience, joy, and love. It isn’t long before she realizes that even though they are apart, Lucy remains in her heart. This picture book is written for kids and gently explores grief in a simple way. What happens to Lucy? And what has Bella taught you about love and loss?
Robert Kusserow’s Bella’s Light left a lasting impression on me. As an educator, I think this would be an important book for families who have recently lost a pet. It could be used as a gentle way for children (and adults) to discuss their grief honestly. The writing is simple, comforting, and easy for children to understand. The illustrations by the author were equally memorable. The picture with Lucy, Bella, and the star with a butterfly was my favorite. It made me think of the quote, “When butterflies appear, angels are near,” which has helped me before. I also loved seeing that a real dog named Bella was the author’s inspiration. This picture book would be a thoughtful addition to a family library or a therapist’s office. Anyone looking for a story about losing a pet, healing, or love will want to pick this one.