“Art can be a place of comfort and healing after loss.” and “Healing isn’t linear. It’s a journey that continues on.” –Amanda Davis
Join in today’s thoughtful and poignant conversation about grief, loss, and the power of art to help us heal.
Today’s Picture Book: Moonlight Memories by Amanda Davis and illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan
Amanda is a teacher, artist, writer, and innovator who uses her words and pictures to light up the world with kindness. After losing her father at a young age, Amanda turned to art and writing as an outlet. It became her voice. A way to cope. A way to escape. And a way to tell her story. She was thus inspired to teach art and pursue her passion for writing and illustrating children's books. In addition to Moonlight Memories, Amanda is the author of the award-winning picture book, 30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag and a yet to be announced forthcoming title. Amanda has over ten years of experience as a classroom teacher and was selected as Massachusetts Secondary Art Educator of the Year. When she’s not busy creating, you can find her sipping tea, petting dogs, and exploring the natural wonders of The Bay State with her family and her rescue pup, Cora.
Book Description: Piper is feeling sad and empty after the loss of her mother. So when her father, who is struggling in his own way, gives her a telescope to console her, she's excited to explore the night sky. But she doesn't find stars or planets when she looks through her lens. Instead, she finds a constellation of memories, a treasured collection of big and small moments with her mother, which she hurries to draw before they fade from view. Night after night she sketches, until eventually, she finds herself in a room covered in memories, surrounded by reminders of her mother's love.
Please consider supporting your local independent booksellers by purchasing Moonlight Memories. Find a store here: https://www.indiebound.org/
Other mentions in this episode:
30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag written by Amanda Davis and illustrated by Sally Wern Comport
empowerHER: https://www.empoweringher.org/
Questions/Activities for further engagement based on the discussion:
1. Can you reflect on a difficulty or challenge in your life? Ask yourself, “How has this affected me then and now?” Can you draw or write about it?
2. If someone in your life has passed away, consider writing a letter to them.
3. A daily practice of gratitude; writing down the things you are grateful for. In addition, can you share a happy memory from the day and what you’re looking forward to tomorrow?
4. Share your story and be curious and ask questions about other people’s stories.
5. Find your community.
6. Give back.
Find Amanda:
Website and subscribe to her newsletter: http://www.amandadavisart.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandadavisart
Instagram: https://instagram.com/amandadavis_art
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