When I started reading this book, I did not expect to get so emotional. The part with the children banging pots and pans brought tears to my eyes.

Layla Ahmad did a wonderful job reminding us of how important front-line workers are during this pandemic and how their lives are affected in more ways than one. It describes their sacrifices in a simple and empathic way, and it reminds us that it truly takes a village, and we rely on one another. This book is current and necessary now – but it also helps children understand when a parent is away, for whatever reason. The message is transferrable and universal, and I am sure it will help children whose parent travels for work or are away for health reasons process their emotions.

I was away from my son for 9 months while undergoing cancer treatment and my husband did a terrific job taking care of him – the daily video calls and the not so healthy diet – that was our lives and I wish I had this book in 2019! Shout out to Farida Zaman, her illustrations are beautiful, inclusive, accurate (that kitchen illustration is so on point!!) and detailed. I loved the small touches, such as the characters wearing masks.

I am adding this to my personal and work library! Cannot wait to share this with my children.

Thank you, Layla Ahmad, Second Story Press and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of When Mom’s Away in exchange for an honest review!

#NetGalley #WhenMomsAway

This is a story about a little girl whose mother is a doctor.. Since we are in a pandemic, the mother must quarantine in the garage to keep our family safe. This is an emotional read. I like how the little girl and her father bond The mother is a superhero in her family's eyes. I really enjoyed this book. I recommend it to all children right now. I give this inspirational book five stars.