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The Secret C – Straight Talking About Cancer ISBN: 9780955953927
Bailey, Peter and Stokes, Julie A.
Published by Winston’s Wish, 2000
Supported by the charities Winston’s Wish and We Are Macmillan Cancer Support and with a Forward by Prince Charles, this booklet about cancer is informative and sensitively illustrated. It emphasises the different kinds of questions that children often ask and also makes it clear that no one is to blame for cancer and that it is important to find time to live life normally when things are chaotic in the family. There is a simple explanation of how cancer occurs, also of radiotherapy and chemotherapy and how they can affect people. There are good suggestions about the ways children can help, and the story admits that teasing may go on at school and that asking your teacher to explain what is happening to the class may help. Being able to talk is important, and while one may feel angry and upset, one should try not to say things one will regret. We also need to know that the cancer may not be curable, even though doctors try their best, and ‘This is BIG stuff to deal with.’ There is a suggestion that the very ill person might like to help you make a book about all the good times you shared. The illustrations are lovely, delicate and full of understanding, and readers will enjoy lots of full-face-to children speaking in bubbles. This is a book for parents and children to share, and it will, no doubt, bring on further questions that must be answered truthfully.
Age: 6+