The Fairy Caretaker

The Fairy Caretaker is the first in the series of books written by Mel Scott and illustrated by Ruth Ablett. It explores the choice that some families make to have, and visit a gravestone when their baby dies. This can be puzzling for young children, and sometimes upsetting as they witness their parent's distress. The book does not hide away from gently describing the strong feelings families experience. This book creates a magical view of these special gardens, where gems and flowers are added to the grave by The Fairy Caretaker. Little Violet wanders amongst the baby headstones, and between them notices small doors and lots of tiny people each with a different job to do. This book would be suitable for children between the ages of 2 and 7, who have experienced the loss of a child in the family/extended family/friends. It is based around the practice of burying a baby/child or their ashes and placing a grave marker there. It may be less suitable for families who have experienced early miscarriage.