Boog the Bug.

Janet Collins is a freelance writer in Sechelt, British Columbia.

Divorce is never easy, especially when there are children involved. All too often, young children think they must have done something to upset the family dynamic. That’s what happens to Boog.

Although the rhyming sometimes seems a bit forced, Boog’s story is a gentle way to explain separation and divorce to a young child. By beginning and ending the story with Boog playing happily with his family, Genaille shows that much will remain the same for the child even if the family structure is altered. Boog’s parents still love him, still spend time with him, and continue to nurture and care for him. The only difference is that Boog’s parents live apart now, and instead of one family, he has two. Lucas’s colourful illustrations underscore the idea that the love between the family members continues even if the marital union doesn’t. Recommended.