Author(s): Sally Hetherington; Jan Hetherington (Illustrator)

CHILDREN'S BOOKS

This beautifully illustrated picture book is more than just a bedtime story for children. Where's Pa? is about a little girl who unexpectedly loses a grandparent. The book touches on the sensitive subject of death, depicting how a family deals with the pain and grief of losing a loved one. It also portrays a simple vision of what heaven might be like from a child's perspective. Ruby has lost her beloved "Pa." But in the sad days that follow, Ruby and her family begin to wonder if Pa is really gone and what do all these signs mean? Join Ruby on her imaginative, poetic journey, as she helps her family to understand that life does indeed come full circle and love really is eternal. Be ready for a positive insight to spirituality. Sally Hetherington is a Melbourne-based graphic artist and musician, and is the mum of her beautiful daughter Ruby, who inspired the idea of Where's Pa? The author grew up on her family's farm in Victoria's Western District, where the story is based. Writing became her way of coping when her father Maurice, (Ruby's Pa) suddenly passed away in 2007. Her mum, Jan Hetherington, is a renowned artist and her interpretation of Sally's poem "Where's Pa?" comes alive with her vibrant and detailed illustrations. "Writing and Illustrating Where's Pa? has been a therapeutic journey for Mum and me. We always felt Dad by our sides, giving us the strength to carry on. Through this book, we wanted to convey the message to the grandchildren that their Pa still loves them and will always be with them in a spiritual sense." Publisher's website: http: //sbpra.com/SallyHetherington