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The COVID-19 pandemic has been a time of confusion, uncertainty, disappointment, and frustration for many people.  Most would agree that their lives have been negatively impacted in some way since the world was introduced to coronavirus.  People have suffered isolation, worry, job loss, financial strain, and illness during these times.  It would probably be a challenge to find someone who does not have a personal story about a struggle that is closely related to this virus. I bet that when I used the word people earlier in this paragraph, your mind immediately went to adults.  But what about children?  How are our children coping with all that has been thrown their way over the past several months? 

Through the Window of Winter the Rabbit

Author Janea D. Harris, in her newest children’s book, “Through the Window of Winter the Rabbit,” sheds some light on what several children may be experiencing due to the pandemic. In the book, the main character, Winter, spends most of her time indoors so that she can remain healthy. She spends her days entertaining herself by dancing, painting, and other activities. But she also admits that some of her time is spent longing for the days of old. Winter misses the days when she could be at school with her teacher and friends.

Winter’s daydreams are often interrupted by visits from her friends.  Confined to the inside, Winter is only able to catch glimpses of her friends from her window.  Those glimpses bring her happiness and give her hope that one day, she’ll be able to join them again.  

How Can We Use Winter’s Story?

As an educator, I know firsthand that many students can relate to Winter’s story.  Several children have limited interaction with others due to their own health or the health of a household family member.  Harris does a fantastic job telling Winter’s story in this book, and I believe that parents (and teachers) can use this beautifully-illustrated book as a conversation starter with children.  We can’t ignore the impact that COVID-19 has had on our children.  Many of their lives have changed drastically in a few short months.  It is important to have healthy dialogue about what is happening in our lives right now, and this book is a great place to start or continue the conversation.  

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Through the Window of Winter the Rabbit can be purchased by clicking here.  

About Janea D. Harris (cover copy)

Janea D. Harris is an author and poet who loves using creative writing to help children gain a better understanding of complex topics. As an educator, she learned that children often discover lasting life-long lessons in the books that they read. Her first children’s book, “All Girls Have, Sup-HER Powers, the Power of Voice,” was inspired by her young daughter. It encourages all children to use their power of voice to speak up and make sure that they are heard.

Her second book, “Through the Window of Winter the Rabbit” is an uplifting story that touches on the various emotions that children are feeling during the pandemic and provides reassurance that this will come to an end.

She has several works of published poetry and is continually inspired by children and their ability to adapt to most any situation. Janea lives with her husband, daughter and son on the North Shore of Chicago, IL.