Managing grief over the holiday season

The Christmas Cardinal by Aïda Juodis is a gentle and heartfelt story that brings comfort and hope to children experiencing the loss of someone they love. Juodis guides young readers through a magical snowy world where cardinals carry messages of love and protection, and where the North Pole becomes a place of warmth, song, and healing during the holiday season.
Illustrator Frances Rose enriches the story with adorable characters and beautifully crafted winter landscapes. Her illustrations are filled with soft colors, expressive faces, and a peaceful sense of wonder that invites readers to linger on every page. The snowy forests, cheerful elves, and glowing skies create a world that feels safe, magical, and full of love.


Together, the words and artwork create a tender reading experience that families can return to year after year. The Christmas Cardinal is a touching reminder that those we miss stay close to our hearts, and it offers a gentle kind of holiday magic that feels both comforting and timeless.
This book is recommended to families experiencing a recent or semi-recent loss.