Such an important read for little ones and reminder for adults. I loved being the way both the author and illustrator captured the essence of loving and losing someone, and how they live on through our memories and still hold value and a place in our everyday lives. The story was very reminiscent of one of my favourite Marvel quotes, "What is grief, if not love persevering?" and I think it sums up this book's message perfectly. I can't wait for this to be on the market as I will definitely be picking up a copy for my future classroom as I think it's important for everyone to read at least once. Thank you to @netgalley @ficbooks, author and illustrator for allowing me to review this early 🩵

*Gerda and Orlo* tells the heartwarming and bittersweet story of two bear best friends, Gerda and Orlo, whose bond is unshakable—until Orlo reveals he is sick and won’t get better. Their days, once filled with games, stories, and shared moments, begin to shift as Gerda grapples with feelings she doesn’t fully understand. With tenderness and wisdom, Orlo helps her prepare for the inevitable, encouraging her to treasure their time together. Through shared laughter, storytelling, and cherished walks, they create memories that allow Gerda to fill the bear-shaped hole in her heart with love rather than sorrow.

This beautifully crafted tale by John Dougherty and Thomas Docherty doesn’t shy away from exploring the complexities of loss and the emotional preparation that can come with it. While it’s a picture book for children, its message resonated deeply with me as an adult. Having faced losses of my own, I found solace in Gerda’s journey, reminding me of the importance of celebrating shared moments and holding onto the joy they bring even after someone is gone.

More than just a book for coping with grief, *Gerda and Orlo* is a gentle tool for sparking conversations about all kinds of loss—whether it’s moving to a new place, losing a beloved toy, or saying goodbye to a cherished pet or loved one. It’s a tender, thoughtful reminder for readers of all ages that while loss is hard, the memories we create can be a lasting source of comfort and connection.