Auntie’s Bangles: A story of love and loss

About this book

Theo’s cousin Rama has come to stay for the holidays, but it doesn’t feel the same as it did before: Rama is very sad because her mum died. 

Everyone is super sad about losing Auntie: Theo can see it in their eyes even when they smile. Auntie loved books and cooking and dancing most of all, jingle-jangling her bangles.  

Theo asks Mummy what he can do to cheer Rama up, but Mum says that isn’t his job: the best thing he can do is be kind.  

So Theo says sorry when he accidentally bumps into his cousin with his remote-control car, and, when Rama has finished all the books she brought with her to read, he lends her some of his. 

Finally, Theo has an idea, and asks Mum and Dad if they can have a dance party. Rama and Theo dance, wearing Auntie’s bangles, thinking of how much they love her. 

This heartwarming story about bereavement is gentle and kind, reminding us that being sad takes time, and that we should hold space for each other when we are recovering from a loss. Dean Atta’s text is sensitive and thoughtful, and Alea Marley’s pictures capture a deeply poignant sense of grief and hope.