If All the World

A beautiful book about the relationship between a little girl and her grandfather. Full of love and emotion, this book talks about the sensitive subject of death, and how to get through mourning your loved ones. A delicate and touching story. The illustrations were stunning, and brought the story together nicely. A necessary addition to classroom libraries.

If All the World Were is one of my new favourite books, and probably my new favourite children’s book. I’ve never cried at a picture book before this.

This is about a young girl using her drawing journals to cope after the loss of her granddad, writing down all the stories and important moments between them that she feels will help her remember him the best. It’s a true celebration of life and the time she spent with her granddad, all the things she learnt from him in the time she knew him, and even though she wants him back, she knows this is the best way she can remember him.

What really got me was how this is an introduction for young people to grief and the concept of death, and to offer a way for them to cope with loss. I know for sure this would’ve benefited me greatly after I lost my granddad when I was younger- I was close with him, and I didn’t cope very well with the loss, and is still something I struggle with. I really hope this offers children the chance to understand and cope with loss healthily, remembering the person they’ve lost and the good times they spent with them.

Death is always hard for a child. Heck death is hard for adults, but it is espcially hard for children because they have nothing to compare it to. Sure, they may have lot a pet, but losing a grand parent is the first big death that most children experience.

This is such a sweet gentle book about all the memories the little girl has of her grandfather, throughout the year, and how much she loved him, and how sad she is that she can not have those walks with him.

She says, after his passing:

<blockquote>If all the world were memories
the past would be rooms I could visit
and in each room would be my granddad</blockquote>


<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-499" src="http://www.reyes-sinclair.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Screen-Shot-2018-05-15-at-6.44.57-PM.png" alt="If all the world" /> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-498" src="http://www.reyes-sinclair.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Screen-Shot-2018-05-15-at-6.45.17-PM.png" alt="If all the world" />

And in the end, she writes all her memories down, so she can think of them again and again.

What a great way to help children grieve.

Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.

5★++
“If all the world were memories, the past would be rooms I could visit and in each room would be my grandad.”

The author says on the (back) cover “For everyone who misses someone.”

What a wonderful idea and what a wonderful book! A young child shows us what it’s like going through the seasons with Granddad.

[My Goodreads review includes an illustration of walking hand in hand with Granddad in the spring and seeing a bird’s nest.]

I can’t confirm whether the child is a girl or a boy, and I suspect that’s probably the point. A bond between that generation gap transcends gender. Kids and old folks operate on a different wave-length from the busy in-between generations.

Summertime is time for fun outdoors in the yard with parents and toys.

[My Goodreads review includes illustration of playing outside with cars with Granddad.]

Autumn is time for creativity. Writing stories, drawing pictures, using your imagination.

[My Goodreads review includes illustration of Granddad giving a special hand-made book and rainbow pencil to write down and draw dreams.]

And then there’s winter – indoor activities.

[My Goodreads review includes illustration of Granddad reading and telling stories about ships, snakes, tigers!]

Then we go to a marvellous illustration of an imagination full of all of Granddad’s stories and ideas.

[My Goodreads review includes illustration of talking to Granddad and imagining pictures of all of his stories.]

It seems Granddad might be from India or thereabouts, but we don’t really know that either. You can see the pictures on the wall and figure out what you can. But really, who cares? This is universal.

It’s simply one of the most beautiful children’s picture books I’ve seen about how to remember a grandparent. No, scratch that. I mean scratch the qualifier. It’s just one of the loveliest children’s picture books, full stop.

I am not a tearful reader, but this one . . . oh my goodness.

Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing for the preview copy and to the author for writing it.

If all the world were springtime
I would replant my grandad's birthdays
So that he would never get old.

If All the World Were... is a beautifully illustrated poem about a girl's relationship with her grandfather, encompassing both her joy as she spends time with him, and her sadness at his eventual passing.

Tracing life through the seasons of one year, the story finds beauty in simplicity, the small joys of simply being together and doing things. Without using a lot of words, it communicates love and memories, each memory represented by a small token that relates to the day they spent together.

This one got me a little teary -- it's very sweet and even in the sadness, celebrates the joy of good memories. The colors in the illustrations are also lovely. (No specifics of the illness/dying process are mentioned.)

(Thanks to NetGalley for the review copy.)

In If All the World, author Joseph Coelho has written an understated story that packs a huge emotional punch. I do not have the words to express how truly lovely this book is, but the illustrations by Allison Colpoys certainly do it justice.

I highly recommend this read for people of all ages as a reminder that even though we're all missing people, our memories of those who are gone help us to keep them alive in our hearts.

Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for providing me with a free electronic ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is a sweet little story for children who have lost a loved one or may be missing someone. I found it comforting, precious and adorable. The illustrated pictures were cheery and painted the story perfectly.

This book was loaned to me as an ARC from NetGalley. The opinions above are my own.

Thoughts: Beautiful words and illustrations in regard to the topic of death of a grandparent. Just ..thanks for the punch in the face with all the emotion.





Downloaded through Netgalley for an honest review.

This book was especially moving to our family having lost my husband and my grandchildren's grandfather less than two years ago. This book depicts a young girl's love for her granddad and how they spend time together, her wishing it would never end. When he dies, she copes with the situation and uses a notebook he made for her to write and draw her memories while dealing with her grief. The book is written by poet and playwright Joe Coelho with wonderful illustrations by Allison Colpoys. This is a wonderful book that tackles a touchy topic: death. Death is never easy but this book would be a great help to any child. A wonderful addition to a family library where they will eventually have to deal with death and the grief that comes with it.

If All the World Were... is a beautiful picture book focusing on the close relationship a granddaughter has with her grandfather. Through the change of seasons, we witness the special times they shared, as well as wishes the granddaughter has ("If all the world were springtime, I would replant my grandad's birthdays so that he would never get old").

As the year passes, there is a growing sense of nostalgia; we learn grandad's health is failing, and at the close of the book, he has passed away and the granddaughter is adjusting to life without her grandfather. However, through treasures she finds in his room and a final gift she has assurance that his moments with her were meaningful and among his favorites, and she memorializes him by writing down the stories of his life in India as well as the adventures they shared.

The illustrations are captivating and will draw in children and adults alike. The subject matter may seem sobering, but this can be a concrete yet gentle way to help prepare a child to the realities of an aging family member as well as offer ideas for adjusting to the absence of a loved one without forgetting them.

What a lovely book about generational love and ultimately a grandfather''s death. The illustrations are gorgeous and supplement the text of the book, which is a story about a child and her grandfather. It details the course of a year, where much time is spent sharing life and stories, and ultimately his death. The theme of the story is that sharing of of his tales and skills lives on with his grandchild, who has her grandfather in her heart and in every room. This is a family from India, which is a plus for all, depicting the traditions of an extended Asian family. A solid 4 stars for this book!

Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for an advance e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

If All the World is a simply but beautifully written and illustrated story about a young girl's experience with the passing of her beloved grandfather. A gentle way to introduce loss and death to younger children, especially one who loses a grandparent or great-grandparent. Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to preview #IfAllTheWorld by Joseph Coelho

#NetGalley #IfAllTheWorld  Available for Purchase June 7, 2018

This is a simple but powerful book focusing on the relationship between a granddaughter and her grandfather. The seasons are represented by different activities that they do together. But in time the granddaughter realizes that her grandfather's health is failing and he dies. When she helps her mom and dad clean his room, she discovers his treasures, which have a story to go with them. She is aware of this due to their close relationship and sharing. On her grandfather's chair is a new notebook. "My name is written on the front. It's new and empty and was made by my grandad." So she begins to write and draw a story...a story of what she knows about her grandfather and the adventures they shared. (Something I'm sure he had in mind.)

Cons: None

Pros:  The simple story and illustrations depict what's happening in each scene without totally spelling it out. The focus seems to be more memories and important facts about Grandpa's life rather than his death and loss.

I apologise. This review comes from the heart and not the mind. Please bear with me - this book has tugged at my heartstrings and stabbed me straight through.

As of July, my grandmother will have been gone from this world for 3 years. She was such an integral part of my life that I still feel a gaping hole in my chest that never gets smaller.

"If all the world were springtime, I would replant my grandad's birthdays so that he would never get old."

These words cling to my very soul. The adventures that the grandad and granddaughter have are so sweet and so beautifully illustrated that you can feel the life breathed into the pages; so artfully, so carefully and delicately. And so, so real.

My Granny and I spoke of the moon and the stars often. We spoke of birds, of life and of love. We laughed and cried together.

"If all the world were dreams, I would mix my bright Grandad feelings and paint them over sad places."

I used to snuggle up with my Granny, too. And she would tell me the most wonderful stories about her life and about Grandpa. And she drew beautiful birds, just like those featured in this book.

"But some tales are silent." I held her hand as she died. I will never forget its softness, and its small, small size - wizened by wrinkles and experience.

In this book, the little girl keeps the memory of her grandpa alive through writing and drawing. This is such an important but beautiful message. Like the little girl, I imagine all the promises of adventure that my Granny and I planned. And that is what you call living memory. Sometimes we can't keep the people we love alive forever, but we keep them forever alive in our hearts.

He says "You're too old to hold hands. But still I hold his giant hand. And we explore, hand in hand."

This is such an important book for children who have lost their grandparents - not just children. I was a grown woman when I lost Granny and it's helping me deal with my loss.

Apologies for the spill of emotions that pour from this review - know that you as author and illustrator have created something so, so meaningful and beautiful.

There are very few books available that deal with death in an appropriate way for young children, so this is a great find. There is lots to discuss here with young children and I particularly liked the metaphor of the changing seasons, with Grandfather’s death happening in Winter. The illustrations invite discussion and the issue of death and what happens next is dealt with very sensitively. It would be particularly suitable to use with with Nursery, Reception and Year 1 children (3-6 year olds) as part of a topic on birth and growth, family or changes, but could also be used to support a child who has just lost a grandparent.

This is a children's story about family, love, and loss.

The book is beautifully illustrated and is written in a poetic and engaging prose. Each page has colorful images depicting a little girl's time spent with her grandfather until one day the he is no longer in the picture.

The book does not describe explicitly how the child deals with the loss but we learn how she copes with it by watching the activities she's engages in after he's gone.

While reading this book images of my loving grandparents came to mind, they might be long-gone but never forgotten. I could relate to the little girl in the story.

Overall, a moving and emotional book for everyone.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley

The core of this story is about death and how it impacts family and individuals. In this instance it focuses on the granddaughter who clearly has a bond with her grandad and feels the loss of his passing greatly. Little things in the story - like how he buys her a secondhand race track and they fix it together and then play - were not only touching but also breaks a bit of a taboo I see of "secondhand stuff". It shows that it's not really about the stuff at all but about the time spent together fixing it and playing with it. Just like the stories he tells her are as much about teaching her about his life as they are bonding.

I really see this book being used more in 1-on-1 situations or in a home environment. This is the type of book that needs to be read and then discussed - perhaps even using some of the ideas (such as the girl writing and drawing in a book) to help another child work through the emotions of losing a loved one. Definitely one for counsellors to consider having handy either to use themself or to lend to a family in need.

Overall, a sad topic but one filled with a lot a love and memory building.

This was a beautiful book about celebrating the memory of loved ones that have passed. This could be a good book to read to kids who have lost someone like a grandparent.

I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a beautiful, moving picture book that introduces young children to the concept of death and grief. A young girl paints a picture of memories with her grandfather and how she wishes she could have held on to him a little longer. As she learns to cope with his death she recalls happy memories and recognises that although he is gone, her memories will always be there. I will definitely consider using this book in the classroom to support children who might be grieving with it's effective language and beautiful illustrations.

Oh this utterly gorgeous picture book gave me all the feels, I just wanted to hug it (and it's adorable little girl) to my chest! I had tears in my eyes at the end, definitely one of my favourite picture books that I've read so far this year. Great for children dealing with bereavement yes but also just a beautiful story to share with little ones that you love. The relationship between the girl and her grandfather is so sweetly described and drawn that your heartstrings are tugged from the first few pages. Favourite quote ' If all the world were springtime, I would replant my grandad's birthdays so that he would never get old' , if only we could do this for our loved ones.

This is a short, sweet and lovely picture book about a young girl's love for her grandfather and the memories that they build together. The grandfather's death is gently implied in the story; the reader watches as his granddaughter is sustained by her memories and his gifts to her. The illustrations are appealing and warm. This book is a good one for parents to read to young children who are coping with loss. It is a gentle and affirming story.

Thank you Netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group (Frances Lincoln Childrens) for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The author says on the back cover that this book is dedicated to everyone who misses someone. The story is something that I think everyone can relate to. We've all lost someone and we all miss them. The art was beautiful and really colorful. The story was touching. It teaches us that we all lose people and what's important is for us to keep their memories alive, and my doing that they'll always be with us.

This was a nice book about a granddaughter's love for her grandpa. It was sad and definitely a lot of people can relate to. I was once like the girl. I had a grandpa who I loved so much but nothing can bring my grandpa physically back. Although it is sad, it is nice to see the girl's memories of her grandpa. The ending was definitely a surprise. It is worth the read with your son and/or daughter. I do hope I can get a physical copy.

Thanks #NetGalley for the free copy.

'If All the World' by Joseph Coelho with illustrations by Allison Colpoys was an emotionally packed book with a beautiful message and illustrations.

The book follows the journey of a child and her grandad through the seasons of the year. There are walks through flowers and toys and stories from grandad's childhood. Grandad gifts a journal and a special pencil to write with. Throughout the book, the child makes wishes for the grandad for more birthdays or better health.

The foreshadowing is there all along, but it's still strong when the ending comes. I read children's books because they can have full emotions, and this one was no exception. I found myself finishing this one with tears in my eyes. What a beautiful book to share with the children in your life.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Frances Lincoln Children's Books, Quarto Publishing Group, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

This is a beautifully done picture book that explores a little girl's love for her grandfather and how she copes with her grief when he dies. It reads like a testament to their love. It offers the opportunity to discuss death, grief and ways we cope when our loved ones pass. The illustrations have a soft, reminiscent quality while showing beloved memories celebrated. This title has a place in every library and would be a helpful gift to a child going through the grief process after losing a loved one.

I was pleasantly surprised by If all the World Were. It took a tough occurrence at almost any age put a clever spin on it. Most of this story focuses on the good times, and when someone does pass on their legacy is left in a unique way. The little girl is likable and I think some kids will be able to relate to her in a a few ways. Truly one of the more interesting children’s books I have read in a while.

This book portrays the beautiful relationship between a grandad and his grandchild throughout the seasons and the way they explore the world together. My 6 year old son really enjoyed it although he didn’t pick up on the fact that the grandad passed away until I explained how this was portrayed.

Make sure you have your tissues ready for this one! If All the World is a heartfelt story about the love and bond between a little girl and her grandfather! What happens when your grandfather is your whole world and then suddenly that world is gone? You channel inward, remember and celebrate all of the wonderful moments you shared together! This is a story that reminds us that our loved ones live on forever in our hearts and cherished memories of them! A must read for everyone! This is the perfect book to discuss and/or prepare young children for the loss of a loved one.

This book is such a precious story of a granddaughter's love for her granddad. She chronicles the sweet, happy memories that they share. They have happy traditions and enjoy spending time together.

Even when a big life change occurs, the narrator still focuses on the love and joy that her granddad brought. She works through her grief by writing her memories down in her journal.

Highly recommend this book. Thanks, NetGalley, for the read in exchange for an honest review.

A little girl spends a year—though that’s probably a metaphor—with her grandpa, whom she clearly adores. She even wishes she could replant all his birthdays so he never grows old. But how does she cope when he’s no longer there?
Her answer probably doesn’t help with the pain, but becomes a fitting tribute, and is likely a good idea for those who have recently gone through it.
The artwork has a sketchy—as in being colored sketches, not unclear or hinky—quality to them that help the story along.

Book is about little girl who loved her granddad dearly and carries his memory along with her. I liked the blurb and purpose of writing the book.

Book started with little girl telling the activities she did with her granddad in different seasons and shows her love for granddad by telling how happy she was how much she enjoyed all the time of all season with her granddad. I loved the way author gave word to all those moments a ‘Kaleidoscope of memory’ and the illustration of it was really beautiful.

The writing was poetic and young girl’s perspective to the story made it warm and heart touching that can take the reader back to memory lane of their grandparents. The bond between girl and granddad was sweet, I could feel girl’s strong attachment to him. The granddad in the story was Indian. Storyline was creative. I loved these lines below, in fact all the lines the depicted child’s imagination and love for her granddad.

“If all the world were deep space, I’d orbit my granddad like the moon and our laughs would be shooting stars.”

The book is very colorful with kid’s imagination. I loved the way child poured out her sadness through a memory in a book preserving them for forever. It was great idea to help kids to cope with the loss of their loved ones.

why 4 Stars-
I would like it even more if author had written more on child’s emotion after the loss and also parents’ involvement with their kid helping her to put her thoughts and emotions into that diary. It seemed like granddad thought about it beforehand kid just understood the purpose of that.

Overall, it was moving engaging and beautiful story book that kids would love to read.

A beautiful story of a little girl's love for her Grandfather and their relationship. This book deals with loss and mirrors the seasons of grief in their relationship through the seasons of the year. It beautifully illustrates the way the memories of our loved ones lives on, even after they are gone.

The illustrations are beautiful and are what initially attracted me to the book. I also love that the characters are from India, it's important to me that we have diverse books.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advance e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

If All the World is a book about GRIEF and how to cope with it.

The book is written in 1st person perspective of a little girl, who is really close with her granddad. She loves her granddad and understands he is getting old. Then one day... no more granddad. 

She picks up her journal and starts painting and writing down her memories of her granddad, so that she never forgets them and the happy memories of her granddad stays with her forever. 

This book is a great way of showing little kids how to deal with grief. We all loose our loved ones all the time. Be it our parents, our grandparents, a pet... We all have different ways of dealing with it. Some of us gets angry, destructive, others become withdrawn and becomes frustrated. But this book shows another healthier way of dealing with it. By  remembering the person we have lost and all the good times we spent with them. 

Like all other children books by this publisher, the illustrations of this book is also really charming, colorful and very attractive. My almost 4 year old son really loved it <3

A beautiful story that explains death and dying to children. The prose is simple and moving, and the illustrations are bright an colorful. This would be a great book to help a child that has lost a grandparent.

If All the World Were... by Joseph Coelho is a poignant tale about a young girl facing the death of her grandfather. Told through lyrical prose and gorgeous artwork, we see her favourite memories of being with her grandfather, expressed through seasonal imagery. I'm going to be honest. This book brought tears to my eyes. It was my paternal grandmother who I was closest to in all my family. When she passed, it devastated me. I'm thankful for all the time I had with her. I read this with my cubs, which led to discussions regarding death. As a concept, it's not foreign to them. We've had furbabies pass. But this seems to have brought the full realisation that I or Jonas, or others in the family, won't always be around.

***Many thanks to Netgalley and Quarto Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.