When a child experiences the death of a pet, grandparent, or loved one, adults often find themselves at a loss for words. How do you explain something so big, so painful, in a way that a young heart can understand?

One of the most gentle and effective ways to support a grieving child is through storytelling. Picture books provide a safe space for children to explore difficult emotions, ask questions, and discover that they are not alone.

A beautiful example of this is Roy the Koi: The Fish Who Lived Forever by Joseph McCarthy and Holly DiBella-McCarthy—a mother-and-son duo who crafted a magical, comforting tale that speaks directly to a child’s heart.

“Together, they combined a mother’s passion for education with a son’s artistic imagination to create a story that comforts and teaches.”
—Megg Waddell, School Psychologist

A Story That Begins with Wonder and Ends with Healing

In Roy the Koi, readers are introduced to a shimmering, magical fish who lives in a peaceful pond nestled among the pines. Roy is no ordinary fish—he’s a friend, a listener, a gentle presence who brings hope and light to the small town that loves him.

Through whispered wishes, secret-sharing children, and watchful adults, Roy becomes part of the community’s emotional landscape. He’s the kind of pet—or presence—that children deeply connect with. And then, one day, he’s gone.

The town is devastated. Children cry. Adults grow quiet. The water in the pond stands still. These reactions mirror what many children feel when facing the death of a pet, grandparent, or even a beloved teacher or caregiver.

What Roy the Koi does so beautifully is give children permission to feel—and to heal.

Why Stories Matter When a Child Is Grieving

Books like Roy the Koi act as mirrors and windows: mirrors that reflect a child’s own experiences and feelings, and windows that offer perspective, hope, and healing.

This story gently guides young readers through the initial sadness and confusion of loss, showing that:

It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or silent.Grief is something we experience together—not alone.Remembering someone we’ve lost keeps their spirit alive.

One of the most powerful scenes in the book occurs when the townspeople begin sharing stories about Roy. These shared memories—like how he blew “word bubbles” or made the children laugh—bring warmth and joy back to their hearts. It’s through storytelling that Roy lives on.

This moment offers caregivers a practical takeaway: Invite children to tell stories about their lost loved one. Draw a picture. Make a “memory box.” Say the pet’s name out loud. All of these help a child realize that love doesn’t end—it simply takes a new form.

How Parents and Caregivers Can Use Roy the Koi

Whether you read the book together at bedtime, in a classroom circle, or as part of a grief support group, Roy the Koi provides a gentle starting point for meaningful conversations.

Here are a few ideas for using the book intentionally:

Read it more than once. Children often process grief in layers, and revisiting the story helps them notice new details or feelings.Pause to ask questions. “How do you think the kids felt when Roy didn’t show up?” “Have you ever missed someone like that?”Encourage story-sharing. After reading, invite your child to talk about their pet or family member. What was their favorite thing to do? What made them special?Create a “Roy ritual.” Maybe it’s visiting a pond, drawing a fish, or blowing bubbles to honor someone they’ve lost.A Book That Grows with the Reader

Much like The Invisible String or The Memory Box, Roy the Koi is a book that families will return to again and again—not only when there is a loss, but whenever they need a reminder of how love endures.

Its poetic language, gentle illustrations, and hopeful message make it a soothing balm for any child navigating the ups and downs of grief.

In a world where children are often rushed through complicated emotions, Roy the Koi slows down, holds space, and says: You are not alone. Love never disappears. And stories can keep the ones we love alive—forever.

Preorder Roy the Koi: The Fish Who Lived Forever today to support a child’s emotional journey through grief, memory, and healing at www.bookchatterpress.com. All pre-orders come with a FREE ROY’S POND PAL POUCH and are autographed by the authors! Coming August 2025.

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