Nana, What's Cancer

by Beverlye Hyman Fead, Tessa Mae Hamermesh, Shennen Bersani (Illustrations)

Cancer is a family disease. When a loved one has cancer, children especially may feel many emotions-sadness, loneliness, and fear. Mostly, they have lots of questions. They want someone to explain cancer to them, but they don't know how to begin. They wonder if their loved one will want to talk about it. Beverlye Hyman Fead, a cancer survivor, and her granddaughter, Tessa Mae Hamermesh, needed to talk about cancer and what it meant to their family. One day over cookies and tea, Tess decided to ask the question, “Nana, what actually is cancer?” That led to other questions and, over time, to a meaningful, thoughtful, and healing conversation. Tess felt better about her situation. Then, she thought, wouldn't it be a good thing to share what she had learned with other children? And that is how this book began. Parents and grandparents, as well as teachers and social workers, will welcome this long-awaited, frank, but gentle tool for teaching inquiring minds and comforting tender hearts. Illustrated by artist Shennen Bersani, the book includes a comprehensive glossary of cancer-related terms to help young readers better understand the medical and technical language of cancer. Here are the questions explored in this

64 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Drew]

In a way it was challenging to read. It reminded me of my papa that has cancer. It makes me feel scared, but then it showed me that there's a big chance that he will be fine. If you have someone that has cancer in your family, this book is a good idea to read to remind you that you have to be there with them every step of the way.

[Isaac]

"I liked this book because it taught me important things about cancer. My Papa has cancer, so that's why we are learning about it. I learned that I can help him by being with him. I want to watch movies with him and sit in his chair with him."

[Sandy Sopko]

Beverlye and her granddaughter Tessa teamed up in this informative book that answers children's questions about cancer. Glossary of related terminology is included.

[Evan]

I enjoyed this book a lot. It reminded me of what I should do for my sick papa. I hope I can use all of these tips for him.

[Kim Piddington]

Very nicely done-factual, but with a hint of story telling, answers questions I believe a lot of children have about the disease.