Kristi Nielsen

We Are a Family Kristi Nielsen

We are a Family explores family dynamics and the meaning of family. The book provides a healthy framework for sharing, cooperation, overcoming jealousy and caring for others in the family. We are a Family explores the dynamics of jealousy as new characters join the family. How will the new family member fit into the family? As the dog and new baby learn to understand one another and play together, new challenges come their way. Overcoming jealousy and learning cooperation, as the baby grows and becomes a toddler. The toddler and dog learn to expand their definition of family and learn to accept change. The story is fun and entertainment. The choice to use silhouette art leaves more room for the child to imagine the story to fit their own situation or family. As time goes by the dog ages and eventually leaves for a vet appointment and does not return. This allows adults to use the book as a conversation starter for discussing death, or the life-cycle of a pet. The parent may explain that the dog needs to stay at the vet's office, or can elaborate and use the event to explain death. As this event is not emphasized, it allows the parent to explain the event to match the age of the child reader. It explores the meaning of family. Is the 'typical' family a mom, a dad, two kids, a cat and a dog? The art allows room for the reader to identify their own definition of family. Themes: Cooperation, overcoming jealousy, family dynamics, communication, dealing with the loss of a pet, dealing with death, newborn baby,