Jar of Tears: Moms aren't supposed to die

I'm shocked.

My dad just told me that my mother died.

DIED.

He should know that mothers don't die until they're old grandmothers. Is he lying to me? Is she dead or did she run away from me because of our fight? I miss my mom. My heart hurts. This can't be happening.

What am I going to do without my mom? How do I survive without my mom?

Dad says that I must move in with him, his wife, and his two kids. This can't be happening. And what about my art show? Mom encouraged me to paint. I can't do my art show without her! What am I going to do?

If my mom died, God must be punishing me. Or maybe he's not as good as everyone says.

Pastor Will says that God values my tears. I can't stop crying, but God hasn't given me my mom back yet. Maybe Pastor Will has been tricked and God isn't real, after all. c

Kirkus review says, 'Steeped in Christianity, Templeton's story is likely to provide deep comfort to those who observe the faith and would prove an excellent resource for Christian youth groups. This Christian-centered story deftly limns the conflicting emotions of kids who have experienced loss.'