A girl and her grandmother get ready to visit her father in prison. Complicated topics relating to incarceration are discussed in a kid-friendly manner. Estimated ages: 3-8

Summary: A young girl and her grandmother prepare to visit the girl's father in prison.

Sometimes family members have to go away and that separation is scary and difficult. In this story, a young girl goes to visit her father who is in prison. She goes with her grandmother who teaches her not just about separation, but about connection, hope, empathy, and patience.

Visiting Day by Jacqueline Woodson was a wonderful book that touches on a difficult topic. Every month on visiting day, a little girl gets ready to visit her daddy in jail. Together, both Grandma and the little girl prepare themselves for the day ahead. Only on this day do they go on a long bus ride, eating fried chicken and cornbread, arms full of presents from Mrs. Tate for her son, excited about seeing Daddy again. Despite her sadness, the little girl is determined to look on the bright side and hope for the day when her Daddy will finally come home. Visiting Day is beautiful in its simplicity, and it does a fantastic job of illustrating a difficult reality for many children. This book is full of optimism and acceptance, perfect for children who have parents that may be incarcerated. ( )

Wonderful little story about a little girl who misses her father. Her dad is in prison and she lives with her grandma. Every visiting day her and her grandma go to visit her dad and bring lots of gifts. They miss the father, but they know it will not be forever. Great story to read to kids in similar situations, it is great to see books like this that they will really be able to relate to. ( )