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The Laugh

2023
by
illustrations by
4.14
on Goodreads (44)

What’s inside...

The Laugh is a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the story of a lady with the loveliest laugh and her daughter. After the lady dies, her daughter struggles with the loss of her mother's laughter. The story gently explores the themes of love, laughter, and loss, showcasing how the daughter eventually finds her laugh again and understands that the memories and love shared with her mother will always remain. This uplifting and tenderly-told story is an ideal way to discuss grief and loss with young children, offering a comforting message about holding loved ones close even when they're no longer physically present. Reassuring and tenderly-told, The Laugh is the perfect story for younger kids learning to navigate grief. 'In a simple metaphor for finding happiness again after the death of a loved one, this book sends a sensitive, focused message—that laughter and joy are possible.' —Kirkus Reviews 'Simply yet powerfully told, The Laugh is a beautiful, gentle story with tender and expressive illustrations, and a comforting message about the ways we hold loved ones close even when they’re no longer with us. It’s a book that will surely mean a lot to many children, families and adults alike.' —Harry Woodgate, author of Grandad’s Camper An uplifting picture book story about love, laughter, and loss. Once there was a lady with the loveliest laugh in the world. She and her daughter share big loud belly laughs, quiet giggles, and sometimes secret laughs between just the two of them. Until one day, the lady dies, and her laugh goes away with her. At first it seems impossible to go on without the lady – but when the little girl finds her laugh again, she knows that, no matter what, the memories and love that they shared will always be there. This reassuring and beautifully illustrated picture book is the perfect way to open up conversations about grief and loss with little ones.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

3-7

Length

32 pages

Text complexity

Discussion points

What made you laugh out loud in the story?
How do you think the character felt when they shared their laugh?
Why is laughing together with others important?
Can you think of a time when laughter helped you feel better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Share a personal story about a time when laughter had a positive impact on your day.
Encourage your child to describe different kinds of laughs and what they think each one means.
Use different voices and expressions when discussing characters and their laughs, to make the reading experience more interactive.
After reading, spend a few minutes sharing jokes or funny moments with each other to reinforce the joy of shared laughter.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of laughter
Explanation: The book centers around the theme of laughter and its ability to brighten everyone's day, showcasing various characters sharing joyful moments.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value humor and share laughter in social settings, enhancing bonds and reducing stress.
Example Lesson: Helping others
Explanation: The story emphasizes how the characters help each other achieve happiness through small acts of kindness.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to help peers and family in need, fostering a sense of community and empathy.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: The diverse characters in the book teach the reader that everyone, regardless of background, shares the universal joy of laughter.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect people from different cultures and communities, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Expressing emotions
Explanation: The narrative encourages children to openly express their feelings, especially happiness, through laughter.
Real-World Application: Children understand the importance of expressing their emotions healthily, aiding emotional development.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The book uses whimsical illustrations and creative scenarios to engage the reader’s imagination.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their creativity in play and storytelling, enhancing cognitive skills and imagination.

The Laugh by Fay Evans