Beyond the Blue Forest - Children’s Picture Book About Grief and Emotional Growth

Age 6+

Beyond the Blue Forest invites young readers on a magical journey of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery.

Join Anton, a spirited young deer boy whose antlers bloom with colorful flowers, as he explores the mystical Blue Forest. Guided by Carey, a gentle doggie girl with eyes that shimmer like stars, Anton encounters the whimsical Hormies - magical beings representing emotions such as Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance. Each encounter helps Anton explore his feelings, gain inner strength, and learn valuable lessons in coping with loss and embracing change.

Illustrated with warmth and vibrancy, this heartfelt picture book captivates children with its enchanting setting and charming characters while gently introducing complex emotions in a relatable and uplifting way. Perfect for bedtime reading or sharing during quiet moments, Anton’s journey inspires resilience, empathy, and the understanding that even in times of sadness, there is always hope and growth.

Beyond the Blue Forest is a must-have addition to any child’s library, encouraging meaningful conversations about emotions, friendship, and the beauty of finding light in the darkest moments.

Meet The Characters

ANTON

A young deer boy whose antlers bloom with flowers. After facing a profound loss, Anton embarks on a magical journey through the Blue Forest, learning to process his feelings and discover inner strength.

CAREY

A kind-hearted doggie girl whose eyes sparkle like stars. As a guardian of the Blue Forest, Carey guides children through challenges, offering wisdom and support to help them navigate their emotions and find healing.

HORMIES

Mystical beings inspired by hormones, each representing a different emotion: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance. The Hormies challenge Anton, helping him grow emotionally and understand the power of resilience.

Publisher: Lily Bud's Books

Date: 18. 02. 2025

Pages: 42

Dimensions: 203 x 254 mm / 8" x 10"

ISBN:

• Hardcover: 978-1-0686326-0-0

• Softcover: 978-1-0686326-1-7

• eBook: 978-1-0686326-4-8

Thema Subject Code: YBC-YXG-5AG

Psychologist's Recommendation:

“Any kind of loss is a very difficult, upsetting experience, and we instinctively try to keep ourselves away from it, but unfortunately, it isn’t possible. Even grownups find it challenging to deal with, and in this way, they can’t really help children either. It is time to demolish the taboo around grief and loss and face the fact that it is part of normal life.

Ildiko’s beautiful story will help both children and adults to understand and successfully go through the stages of grief. It serves as a guide, just like Carey does for Anton during his journey through the Blue Forest.

Beyond The Blue Forest is a very emotionally moving, touching tale about loss, with a comforting end about the hope of acceptance and the ability to remember.”

- Marietta Feketene Zsigo, Psychologist, GMBPsS