You Shouldn't Have to Say Goodbye

By Patricia Hermes

Book Overview

Thirteen-year-old Sarah Morrow doesn't think much of the fact that her mother winced a little when she hugged her. In fact, that first small indication of something wrong escapes the whole family. Three weeks later though there can be no escape. Sarah's mother has been diagnosed with incurable cancer and the love this family shares becomes a desperate clinging. But Sarah's mother has a gift. A gift for reaffirming life. And even as she leaves that gift, another one, a letter, will help bring Sarah through the most painful and trying time she has ever had. One of the most honest portraits of death, courage, and, most especially, love can now be shared again with a new generation of children. "Hermes, author of this . . . uncompromisingly candid story makes the reader aware of life's priceless moments and the need for courage." -Publishers Weekly "A vivid, painful believability." -The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "A sensitive, touching account." -Instructor Magazine "This book is by far the best liked book in my reading class. We have read this book in my fifth grade class for the last eight years. The book gives us an opportunity to discuss many issues confronted by young kids while growing up. It also provides an opportunity to discuss death and the loss of a loved one. The students and I have had many heart wrenching talks while reading this book. Many tears have been shed by my students while reading and discussing this book. This is my all time favorite book to read in class." -Online review

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1402213255
• ISBN13: 9781402213250
• Release Date: September 2008
• Publisher: Sourcebooks
• Length: 118 Pages
• Weight: 0.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 4.9" x 6.8"
• Age Range: 9 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 4 to 7

Customer Reviews

I read this book when in Elementary School

I read this when I was younger, It's a book I remember vividly. I remember crying when I read it, I also remember when my mom was teaching me how to do my laundry, my first thought that popped into my brain was that she was teaching me, because she was going to die soon, pretty sure I got that idea from this book lmao, I laugh about it now, but back than it really caused me great anxiety. This was just great and moving book, it will stick in your mind forever, at least it did for me.

2nd generation

I read this book when I was a young girl and loved it. I recently bought it for my sister.

must read!

I read this book when it first came out in the mid 80's. It has stuck with me so much that I had to find it for my daughter. This book does deal with the death of a mother, so be warned it is very emotionally charged. Having said that, it is a finely written story of a girl's struggle with her adolecence and how she and her family pull together to brave the death of her mother. This is a definate must read if you can find a copy.

This Book Was Very Well Written

I think this book really shows you what it's like to lose someone you love the most. It was so sad though. I recommend this book to everyone. It is a Must read.

One that will touch your heart

I encourage you to read this book because,it really can happen to you or any one you know. If you read this book you will probaly love it. It is sad but,very interesting. If you like books that are sad you will like it.It is a story about Frienship & love.

"You shouldn't have to say goodbye"shed me to tears

A thirteen year old girl without a mother? Sarah. Sarah knowing that her mom has cancer, puts herself to gymnastics to hide the reality. If I was Sarah, I would never live a normal life again.