Last Week My Brother Anthony Died

by Martha Whitmore Hickman

A small girl named Julie describes her feelings following the death of her four-week-old baby brother.

Library Binding

Published January 1, 1984

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“I am looking at my shoes. They are sandals, and they fit me last year, and they still fit me this year.
I am wondering how come things like shoes last and people don't.”

Anthony, a four-week-old baby, tragically passes away due to health issues. The story follows his older sister as she navigates her family's grief, the irritation she feels, and how her once bright world is now clouded with sorrow. Yet, the book also highlights that it's okay to feel sad, even depressed, and shows how time, with its gentle touch, can bring some healing if we allow it.

‘You'll feel better.’ he says.
‘I don't want to yet.’
‘You don't have to. But later, you may want to. If vou want to, you will, though not all the time.’ I see him looking up at the sky. ‘The sad feelings come and go, like clouds.’ he says.