Monday, March 29, 2010

Badger's Parting Gifts by Susan Varley

25 p., Lothrop, Lee & Shepard, 1984.

Badger is old and unable to walk without a cane, and knows that it will be time to die soon. He isn't afraid of this; just concerned about his friends' experiences of losing him. After writing a brief goodbye note to them, Badger dies - expressed as an extraordinary dream of running down a tunnel. Badger's friends lovingly remember all the things he's taught them to do well. Each of these skills is a special gift. To one of the animals, it seems as if Badger can feel his gratitude for this gift. This story shows children that although sadness is part of death, so is keeping with us something we've gained from our closeness with the person who has died.

Ages 3-7
Main character's cultural background: non-human
Cultural context: non-human

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