Karen Brough's New Picture Book Helps Kids Navigate Divorce
News related to:Heart Hope Publishing · 2 min read
The book, illustrated by Hiruni Kariyawasam and published by Heart Hope Publishing in 2026, introduces a gentle narrative through the eyes of five bird siblings who must adjust to living in two nests.
The book delves into the various emotional reactions of the birds, each facing their unique challenges. Blue Bird cries and misses the old nest, Gray Bird is full of questions, Red Bird is angry, and Yellow Bird hides and worries. Green Bird, initially quiet, eventually asks, "What if I'm the reason this happened?"
The book also offers practical coping strategies for children, such as talking about what confuses them, letting big feelings out, noticing what has stayed the same, practicing thankfulness, journaling, drawing, and replacing untrue thoughts with true ones. The message is clear: despite the changes, the birds remain a family and are loved.
Karen Brough, an Australian children's author, has crafted a book that focuses on the child's emotional security rather than the adults' situation. Her previous work, "I Can't Believe They're Gone," has sold over 23,000 copies and is available in German, French, Italian, and Spanish editions. "One Nest or Two" is available in paperback (ISBN 978-1-922967-44-2), hardcover (ISBN 978-1-922967-43-5), and on Kindle.
The book is designed to be a gentle conversation starter for children and the parents, caregivers, and professionals supporting them. It offers 10 conversation starters to help families discuss what has changed and how to cope with the new reality. Brough hopes to create a safe space where children recognize a little of themselves, feel seen, heard, and not alone.
NetGalley reviewers have praised the book. Kelsey B, a librarian, called it "a phenomenal resource" that fits well with other topics like foster care or adoption. Maeve S, a parent, shared that she read the book to her daughter, who loved it.
Psychologist and behavior analyst Rachel McGregor highlighted the book's delicate yet bold description of the different expressions of hurt and confusion children experience.
With the holidays approaching, a season when many children of separated parents spend time moving between two homes, "One Nest or Two" offers a gentle way to talk about what has changed. The book is now available for purchase, providing families with a tool to navigate the emotional landscape of divorce and separation.