Chip -- Federico Gastaldi, Hardcover

Atticus and Chip share memories in this tender and beautifully illustrated picture book about losing a pet.

Atticus wakes at his usual time, ready to feed Chip. But when he reaches the fishbowl, Chip is gone. When Atticus asks his loved ones where Chip is, he gets a range of answers in the form of gentle but evasive ways of explaining the concept of death: Chip is in a better place; Chip has moved on. These ideas are confusing for Atticus.

Told from a child's point of view, this honest depiction highlights the importance of memory as a coping strategy when grieving the loss of a loved one. Memories live in our hearts and keep our loved ones with us. This gentle story is an imaginative meditation on healing from grief.

Author: Federico Gastaldi
Publisher: Christy Ottaviano Books-Little Brown and Hach
Published: 10/17/2023
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.00lbs
Size: 10.16h x 10.16w x 0.32d
ISBN: 9780316381840
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 08/15/2023
Horn Book Magazine 09/01/2023 pg. 52
Booklist 10/15/2023 pg. 56

About the Author

Federico Gastaldi is an Italian creator who studied illustration at the European Design Institute in Turin. His work has been published in the Wall Street Journal, the Boston Globe, and the Washington Post, among other publications. The personal loss of a dear friend inspired him to create Chip, his first book for children. Federico lives in Alessandria, Italy. He invites you to visit him online at federicogastaldi.com.