Finn’s Feather

Finn’s Feather by Rachel Noble, illustrated by Zoey Abbott (Enchanted Lion Books) PB RRP $16.99 ISBN 9781592702749

Review by Wendy Haynes

This debut picture book was written from the heart by Noble after the death of her son Hamish, and in her search to find a way to help his brother cope with loss. It represents how quickly life can change and is a gift to other children dealing with grief.

It is warm-hearted story for three to five-year-olds about Finn and the feather he finds at his doorstep that he believes is from his brother Hamish. With feather in hand, and bubbling with excitement he explores the playgroup with his friend Lucas. This makes Finn happy that it’s like having fun with Hamish.

This story touches on a deep subject in a light way, and is a wonderful resource for parents, carers, and teachers. The theme of loss and acceptance is enhanced by illustrator Zoey Abbott bringing to the page mainly soft shades of yellow throughout the full-page sketches. Yellow is a wonderful choice as it brings on the feeling of happiness, with the picture showing activities, expression and moods of the characters within.

Whether dealing with grief or not, it is worth having on the shelf as a subject to explore with children.