A Leaf Called Greaf

A Leaf Called Greaf is a poignant and beautifully written picture book that explores themes of grief, healing, and hope through the gentle metaphor of a magical leaf. Shortlisted for the CBCA 2025 Early Childhood category, this emotionally rich story provides a sensitive and age-appropriate way to talk about loss with young readers. The narrative follows a child's journey through sadness, comforted by the presence of a special leaf named Greaf, which helps them process their feelings and find peace. Supported by soft, emotive illustrations, the book offers a powerful message that grief can be understood and carried in meaningful ways, even by the youngest of children. With lyrical language and visual symbolism, A Leaf Called Greaf invites important conversations around mental health and emotional wellbeing. Ideal for pre-readers and early readers, this book is a valuable tool for both home and classroom use, aligning with the Australian Early Years Learning Framework. Whether shared as a read-aloud or in a one-on-one setting, this gentle tale provides comfort, understanding, and an open doorway to healing discussions.

Educational Benefits:

• Supports emotional literacy by introducing the concept of grief in a child-friendly way.
• Encourages open discussions about emotions, loss, and healing.
• Develops vocabulary and language skills through lyrical and descriptive text.
• Enhances comprehension and empathy through metaphor and storytelling.

Classroom Ideas:

• Use as a starting point for discussions on emotions and coping strategies.
• Incorporate into wellbeing programs or social-emotional learning activities.
• Invite students to create their own 'leaf' that represents a feeling or memory.
• Pair with nature-based activities that explore the seasons as metaphors for change.

Information:

• Ages: Suitable for 5 years and up