A Terrible Thing Happened: A Story for Children Who Have Witnessed Violence or Trauma by Margaret M. Holmes is a sensitive and thoughtfully illustrated picture book designed to help children understand and cope with the emotional aftermath of witnessing traumatic events.

Overview

The story centers around Sherman Smith, a young raccoon who witnesses a terrible incident. Initially, Sherman tries to forget about what he saw, but he soon experiences various emotional and physical symptoms, such as anxiety, stomachaches, nightmares, and anger. These feelings lead him to act out and get into trouble. However, with the help of Ms. Maple, a caring adult, Sherman learns to confront his feelings and talk about the traumatic event he has been trying to ignore.

Key Themes

1. Understanding Trauma: The book addresses the impact of witnessing violence or trauma on children, illustrating how these experiences can manifest as anxiety and behavioral issues.
2. Importance of Communication: It emphasizes the significance of talking about difficult experiences with trusted adults, which can facilitate healing and understanding.
3. Coping Strategies: The narrative provides a framework for children to recognize their feelings and encourages them to express their emotions rather than suppress them.
4. Supportive Relationships: The role of caring adults in helping children navigate their emotions is highlighted, showing how support can lead to recovery.

Illustrations

Cary Pillo’s illustrations complement the text beautifully, adding warmth and empathy to Sherman’s journey. The artwork helps convey the emotional weight of the story while also providing a gentle touch that makes the subject matter more approachable for young readers.

Additional Resources

The book includes an afterword by Sasha J. Mudlaff, which offers practical tips for parents and caregivers on how to support children who have experienced trauma. This section provides valuable insights into fostering open communication and understanding during difficult times.

Conclusion

A Terrible Thing Happened is an essential resource for children who have witnessed traumatic events, as well as for parents and educators seeking to provide support. By addressing the complexities of trauma in a relatable way, this book helps children feel less isolated in their experiences and encourages them to seek help when needed. It serves as a powerful tool for initiating conversations about trauma and emotional health in a compassionate manner.