"When Gary wrote, My Heart Sings a New Song, none of us knew what a difficult passage the world was entering the 2020. But here we are, and this book is a gift for all ages. On Planet Earth in 2020, we can expect moments when every single one of us 7.8 billion human beings will needs to be held while someone reads to us this precious book!" Paul Nixon, Author and Coach
"This book provides a gentle approach to some hard realities. It tackles soem big questions without giving trite answers. These comforting pages are what you would get if you had the opportunity to sit your grieving child down beside a loving, wise and compassionate chaplain--because that's what Gary is." Larry Dawalt, Board Certified Chaplain, Certified in Thanatology, Chameleon's Journey Grief Camp Director.
"My heart was touched, and my soul comforted by the caring and loving spirit in what Gary has expressed here. This lovely book will be a tremendous gift to grieving children and their families in need of healing, comfort and restoration." Bishop Jeremiah Park, Susquehanna Conference of the United Methodist Church.
"Gary has written a beautiful, helpful and hopeful book for children who have lost a loved one. It's simple story and beautiful illustrations open the door for parents or grandparents and children to talk about grief and loss. I highly recommend this book! It is a beautiful and much needed work." Rev. Adam Hamilton, Senior Pastor, The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection.
"This is a simple yet emotionally rich book, written in a language appropriate for a grieving child. Children often don't have an adequate vocabulary to express their feelings. I think this book will allow both children and adults to start a dialog about the grieving process, to explore and validate their feelings. The illustrations are beautiful and convey such meaning. What a lovely book!" Dr. Mrinalini Joshi, MD Hospice Physician
"Gary beautifully blends his pastoral heart with years of experience working as a hospice chaplain in this book. Age appropriate books on the subject of grieving are much needed and this book fills this void. The resource should be on hand for anyone walking little ones through the loss of someone they love." Sam James, Funeral Director, James Funeral Home NC
"Rare is the publication about grief that deals honestly with its complexity, pain and depth. What Gary has done in his beautifully illustrated book is give voice and vision to the reality of grief that does not patronize the hearts and minds of children with easy, empty answers. His work is a heart warming, empathic invitation for children to be at home with their tears and questions while reminding them that in this honest place, with the support of loving community , healing comes. For those in the ministry and profession of caring for children, this book deserves a place in your library. Just make sure that place is easily accessible as no doubt you will share it often." Rev. Greg Hathaway, Board Certified Chaplain, Certified Educator with ACPE and Director of Spiritual Care for Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte NC.
"My Heart Sings a Sad Song is a touching journey through one bunny's process of grieving a loved one. Reading this book with your child acknowledges their experiences in understandable language and provides a helpful starting point for conversations about remembering, cherishing, and reaching out." Allison Goforth, MSW, LCSW
"This beautifully illustrated book will comfort yoru child while serving as a springboard for important discussions regarding loss. The characters gently acknowledge the deep sadness of grief and present questions that may arise from personal loss. " Amy Styers Bissette, Hospice Social Worker
