This illustrated book introduces the reader to many of the scenarios that confront a child when someone they care about has cancer. It addresses how adults often tend to exclude children from conversations around cancer, and gives a simple explanation of what cancer is and the questions that children may have but fear to ask. These include: is it contagious, did I do something that caused it, and "why do people talk about it in whispers?". Surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy are described in simple language. Children's fear of not knowing how to behave when someone has cancer is discussed and some suggestions offered. The return of cancer after successful treatment, and terminal cancer, are lightly touched on, as is a recognition that ordinary life continues around these life-changing events. The pastel illustrations are all child-focused and elaborate on the text which is quite brief. This book responds to a recognition that both adults and children may try to hide the truth from each other about cancer and the emotional and practical impacts it has. The Secret C is a sensitive, light-touch approach to addressing cancer and what changes may come with it. Colour picturebook with short text.

Child 4 – 8 years