The Invisible Leash: An Invisible String Story About the Loss of a Pet
The Invisible String Series
What’s inside...
From the author of the million-copy-bestselling picture book phenomenon The Invisible String, comes a moving companion title about coping with grief when a pet dies. The story follows Zack, who doesn't believe in the Invisible Leash that his friend Emily tells him connects their hearts to their pets forever after they pass away. Zack only believes in what he can see, but through an enlightening journey through their neighborhood—and through his grief—he comes to feel the comforting tug of the Invisible Leash, and it feels like love. Accompanied by tender, uplifting art by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff, bestselling author Patrice Karst's gentle story uses the same bonding technique from her classic book The Invisible String to help readers through the experience of the loss of a beloved animal.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-4
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the character felt when they lost their pet? Can you relate to any of those feelings?
What do you think the Invisible Leash means? How does it help the character feel better?
Can you think of a happy memory with a pet or someone you love? How does that memory make you feel?
Why do you think it's important to remember the good times with those who are no longer with us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a safe and open environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their emotions. Validate their feelings and share your own experiences with loss to help them understand that they are not alone. Encourage them to ask questions and express their thoughts throughout the reading. At the end of the book, discuss the concept of the Invisible Leash and how love and memories can keep us connected to those who have passed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and processing grief
Explanation: The story follows a child coping with the loss of a beloved pet, which helps children understand that sadness and grief are natural responses.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their feelings of loss openly and seek comfort from family and friends during tough times.
Example Lesson: Continuity of love
Explanation: Through the concept of an invisible leash that connects them to their lost pets, the book teaches that love does not end with death.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp the permanence of relationships and the enduring nature of love, even after someone has passed away.
Example Lesson: Healing through memories
Explanation: The book illustrates how cherishing memories can provide comfort and aid in the healing process.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to keep the memory of their loved ones alive through stories and rituals, which can be a healthy part of the grieving process.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others experiencing loss
Explanation: Seeing the protagonist's journey through grief can foster empathy and understanding in young readers towards others who are grieving.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate the feelings of others and offer support, fostering stronger, empathetic social interactions.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of life's cycles
Explanation: The book addresses the concept of life and death in a gentle manner, suitable for young minds.
Real-World Application: Children learn to accept the cycle of life, which can help reduce fear or confusion about death and promote a healthier understanding of life's natural processes.