Jamie's journey : cancer from the voice of a sibling /
by Sharon Wozny ; illustrated by Melissa Bailey.
- 64 numbered pages : illustrations (chiefly color) ; 27 cm
Includes biographical references (page 64).
13-year-old Jamie struggles with the complex emotions she feels following her 10-year-old sister's cancer diagnosis. She finds solace expressing her feelings in a journal. Jamie records a diversity of conflicting feelings: anger, jealousy, fear, love, inspiration, resentment, worry etc. She analyses these feelings and describes significant milestones and memories from the time that Jordan is diagnosed, through her surgery and subsequent treatment. The second half of the book consists of non-prescriptive prompts from Jamie to encourage the reader to consider how their own sibling's cancer journey has affected them. She addresses the reader directly, personalising the reading experience. There are blank pages with prompts to write, doodle or draw responses, such as "Describe what being relieved looks like for you" and "Inspiration. What does that mean to you? How has your sibling inspired you? How do you think you've inspired your sibling?" Readers can, if they wish, document their experiences, like Jamie. Younger children may need assistance with these pages. Jordan's cancer is not specified, but her symptoms and the illustrations suggest a brain tumour; however, this book is suitable for all children with a sibling experiencing a serious illness. The text is complemented by black and white sketches with economical use of colour for emphasis. Jamie points out some websites which may be of use to siblings in similar circumstances. Longer text with illustrations, and activity book.
Audience: child 10+ , adult caregiver
9781589852341 (paperback)
2016931442
Cancer in children--Psychological aspects--Juvenile fiction. Cancer in children--Patients--Family relationships--Juvenile fiction. Sisters--Juvenile fiction. Teenage girls--Diaries--Juvenile fiction. Cancer--Psychological aspects--Fiction. Sisters--Fiction. Teenage girls--Diaries--Fiction.
Sibling with cancer (sister) Family experiencing cancer Tumour Hospital experience Reader participation activities