LOSING UNCLE TIM

by MaryKate Jordan ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 1, 1989

In a gentle, realistic story, Daniel describes his friendship with his favorite uncle, who has an antique store--where he tells Daniel about his interesting treasures and where they play checkers together. Then Uncle Tim begins to seem tired all the time, and Daniel learns that he has AIDS. His first response is denial; then their friendship continues. Tim tells Daniel about the sun's movement, and that Daniel must never lose their checkers games on purpose, even for his sake. As the illness progresses (""Uncle Tim started to look old, like the toys in his store""), Daniel worries about catching Tim's disease, but his father reassures him: ""It's safe [to] hug him. You can have dinner with him. . .The doctor said you can't catch AIDS just by taking care of someone."" The book concludes with Tim's death and his legacy: memories and things he has taught Daniel, as well as some favorite pieces from the shop. This quiet story, written by a minister, shines with love and mutual respect, beautifully reflected in Friedman's soft, meditative illustrations. More than just a book with a purpose, it is a moving portrayal of a nice family's exemplary coping with a tragic loss.

Pub Date: Nov. 1, 1989

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 32

Publisher: Whitman

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 15, 1989

Categories: CHILDREN'S