Book Nook: Where Did Nicky Go?

 Through the use of heartwarming illustrations and touching storytelling, young readers are introduced to the universal scenario of losing a loved one, in this case, the loss of a family pet. The new children’s book “Where Did Nicky Go?” written by Lucy Geddes and illustrated by Schenker De Leon, approaches the delicate subject of death and imparts a valuable message for young children to learn from as it tells the story of a boy named Danny and his experience of dealing with grief after his beloved golden retriever, Nicky, passes away. This book is essential for all families who own a pet as someday, every child will feel similar emotions Danny experienced and likely share his struggle of coming to terms with the loss. 

“Where Did Nicky Go?” demonstrates the multiple ranges of emotions Danny undergoes to allow young readers to know it is acceptable to feel these different ways when losing someone close to them. The story also helps explain to children how to cope with difficult times which is a much-needed message these days due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Eventually, things begin to brighten up for Danny after he hesitantly agrees to watch his friend’s new puppy. After a few hiccups, Danny learns to find joy again, thanks to the sweet puppy and his family’s help with him coming to terms regarding his mixed feelings of sadness, anger, grief, and questioning why his dog had died.

I had a chance to interview the author to learn more.

Why did you write this book?

My family had a golden retriever years ago named Nicky.  When he was 13 years old our veterinarian discovered during a routine checkup that he had a tumor.  He told us that he was too old to go through an operation and we should take him home, give him lots of love and enjoy him with whatever time we had left with him.  This was the first time my three children experienced the death of a pet dog.  Those of us who have gone through it know how difficult that can be.  With children, as well as adults sometimes, they have a lot of questions.  I had always wanted to write children’s books and this was my inspiration for writing my first children’s book.  I wanted to write a story that children would enjoy, and hopefully, help them through the grieving process. 

 

Why is it so important for parents to have a way to discuss grief with their children?

As a mother, grandmother, and teacher, I think there are many topics that parents find difficult to talk about with their children. However, children do need to be able to talk to someone if they are going through the grievance of a pet or a loved one.  We need to remember that children are learning as they grow, but they do need guidance.  If a pet or loved one is here with us one day and suddenly gone the next, children are going to be sad, confused, angry, and may have a lot of questions.  Sometimes they just need someone to listen to them.  Other times they may need questions answered giving them only enough information as they can handle at their age.  They will also need you to be patient and understanding with them.  I have always felt that it’s better to help children work through issues than ignore their problems.   

 

How can books help parents discuss challenging topics?

In my book, Where Did Nicky Go?, Danny’s parents listen to him and ask him questions in order to guide him in making the right decisions.  His mom is very patient with him but makes sure he takes responsibility for his actions.  When he asks his mom questions she answers them briefly, but directly.  It is my hope that this heartwarming story will make it easier for children and parents to have discussions if they are going through the loss of a beloved pet or the loss of a loved one.  I think that reading a book about a child who has just lost his beloved pet would be a good framework for helping to initiate a conversation between a parent and their child. 

Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Xlibris

The audio version is currently available at the Xlibris online bookstore and will also be available soon through Audible.

 

About the Author

Author Lucy Geddes is a retired elementary teacher having taught kindergarten, Readiness, and first grade for a total of 33 years and received her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Plymouth State College (now Plymouth State University). She is also a mother of three grown children and a grandmother of six grandchildren. Geddes had always dreamt of writing a children’s book and was inspired to write “Where Did Nicky Go?” based on their family dog Nicky who passed away at the age of 13 when her children were still young. Her intent was to write a story that children could enjoy and help them through the grieving process as she had done with her own children after losing Nicky. Geddes is currently working on her second children’s book, Grammy Said, “No!” that explores the expectations that Grammys always say yes to everything. However, in this delightful tale, a Grammy soon realizes that sometimes “No!” may not be the best response and sometimes it is the perfect response. Geddes resides in Auburn, New Hampshire and loves to stay active by reading, writing, swimming, biking, kayaking, cross country skiing, sewing, cross stitching and more!