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Two People Can

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Book Synopsis

A lyrical and uplifting picture book story about the impact the departure of a dad has on a young boy called Shingai, written by award-winning Zimbabwean poet Blessing Musariri and beautifully illustrated by British artist Maisie Paradise Shearring.

Shingai’s father has gone and Shingai and his mum are all alone and feeling lost. Shingai can’t contain the whirlwind inside any more. He needs to let his feelings out.

A stunning story, beautifully illustrated, about the complex range of emotions a child experiences when a parent leaves, told from the perspective of a young boy. An important book about overcoming sadness with hope, love and empathy, that will help children understand their feelings . . . and ultimately help them find a way forward.

Our Review Panel says...

This is a refreshing, positive picture book about loss and change.

It tells the story of Shingai and his mother, who are both struggling to cope with the departure of his father. It’s not spelt out whether the father has left or has died – the lessons could be equally applicable to either scenario. As Shingai’s destructive behaviour gets progressively worse, eventually his mother joins in, which leaves Shingai confused. This eventually leads him to the understanding that they both still have each other and they both consider what two people can enjoy and accomplish together.

Powerfully, Shingai only makes the breakthrough he needs to adapt to the changes in his life after his mother acknowledges and expresses her own grief and loss.

This is a lovely book for sharing in difficult circumstances. The illustrations are bright and appealing and the overall message is of hope and new beginnings.