Book Review

I was recently asked to review a new children's book written by Courtney Johnson and Illustrated by Eszter Szepvolgyi. First, I have to say what an honour it is to be asked to review another author's work. And, I will put in my plug, as usual, about how important reviews are to authors; in fact, it is one of the best gifts you can give - review their books.

Let me tell you a bit about Courtney. She is a cardiac surgery physician assistant from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She lost her three month old beautiful baby, Cooper, on New Year's Eve 2024. She wrote this book to help other families, and especially young children, deal with such unthinkable loss. Courtney also runs a non-profit foundation, Cooper's Ice Cream Crew.

The courage and bravery I see again and again in grieving parents never ceases to amaze me. I am continually blessed by how they channel their pain towards helping others in need.

Here is the review for Courtney's book, "Signs From Super Cooper" which will be available February 17 on Amazon.

The loss of a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience for young children to comprehend. Along with their own feelings of sadness and grief, unanswered questions can leave them feeling confused and uncertain. This beautifully written children’s book offers parents and families a gentle, compassionate tool to help bring comfort and understanding during such a painful time.

The illustrations are warm and child-friendly, featuring comic-style characters and a superhero theme that children naturally connect with. The story of Super Cooper sending signs to his family from heaven helps young readers understand that love continues beyond loss, and that those who have passed are safe, happy, and still connected to us.

The author’s chosen symbols are especially meaningful and thoughtfully woven throughout the story. The cardinal as a spiritual messenger of comfort and hope, the feather as a sacred gift, and the butterfly as a symbol of transformation and rebirth all add depth and tenderness to this story of love and loss. This book is clearly the work of a mother who has experienced unimaginable grief and has transformed that pain into a beautiful source of comfort, reassurance, and guidance for young children.

Courtney, thank you for sharing your book with me. I wish you the best as you share Cooper's legacy with others.

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