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We Need to Talk About Divorce

Ages 10 to 14
Paperback

Synopsis

Divorce doesn't have to define you – a reassuring illustrated guide for children navigating their parents' separation.


Children of separating or divorcing parents often feel alone and alienated, as though no one understands what they're going through. They need reassurance that their feelings are normal, and age-appropriate answers to their many questions. But divorce is confusing and overwhelming – thinking and talking about it are hard, for kids and grown-ups alike.

Kate Scharff, internationally renowned divorce therapist (and a child of divorce herself), addresses many of kids' common concerns, such as navigating life in two homes, feeling pressured to choose sides, and adjusting when parents date or remarry. Her central theme is the importance of parent-child communication, and she offers lots of tips for how kids can speak up constructively – even in the trickiest situations.

With illustrations by Annika Le Large, We Need to Talk About Divorce is suitable for kids to read by themselves or with a parent. It's frank, honest, and open. While the author doesn't shy away from the painful aspects of family break-up, she also reassures readers that while divorce will always be a sad memory, it doesn't have to be a bad turning point. In fact, blended families and new beginnings can make lots of things easier over time.

Part of Neon Squid's critically acclaimed series tackling subjects that are hard to talk about, for ages 10 and above.

Details

20 March 2025
64 pages
9781916745025
Imprint: Neon Squid

Reviews

While kids are the target audience, teens and even parents will find Scharff’s words of wisdom valuable. Optimistic, empathetic, and nuanced—in short, required reading for young people navigating divorce.Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW, Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
"This nonfiction guide to navigating divorce is both compassionate and comprehensive. It’s particularly valuable for secondary school students who are going through a family transition themselves, providing comfort, clarity, and a sense of community."School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW, School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW
"By illustrating common scenes and experiences, the artwork also helps readers feel seen and heard, showing them that what they are going through is real and that they are not alone. For any family experiencing divorce, We Need to Talk About Divorce is an invaluable resource."The Children's Book Review, The Children's Book Review
Sensitive, reassuring, and practical.Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year, Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year