International Rights

The Heart’s Song

By: Gilles Tibo
Illustrated by: Irene Luxbacher
  • ISBN 9781443157216, Hardcover
  • 32 Pages | Ages 4 to 8

We cannot live without experiencing loss; but we gain much more from what we give each other.

Children flock to Miss Matilda at her bench in the park. She is the trusted fixer of broken toys and umbrellas. But she is also called on to help mend problems of the heart — a boy who misses his mom; a girl who wants her dad to come home; a child who longs for a friend or doesn’t want a new teacher.

After the loss of her beloved bird, when it’s her turn to need comfort, the children come together and help to mend her heart with songs, drawings, poems of hope and messages of love.

This deeply touching story, which gently explores sadness and grief, is also a story of community, love and friendship, and coming together through music and art. Stunning, mixed-media art by award-winning illustrator Irene Luxbacher brings the emotions and scenes to life in evocative detail.

Rights Sold

French (N.Amer.) – Éditions Scholastic

Selling Points

• A picture book to help young people navigate the experience of loss. • An affirmation of the strength and power of community.• The warmth and joy in Luxbacher’s panoramic art perfectly balances the story and mood.

Awards

  • Short-listed, Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Award, 2018
  • Commended, Best Books for Kids and Teens, Canadian Children's Book Centre, Starred Selection, 2018
  • Commended, Resource Links, Best of the Year, 2017

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