SuitabookGoodbye Mog
Judith Kerr
- Reading
- Read it when there is time to pause rather than rushing through the sadness. Let the child lead discussion about death, remembrance and the new kitten, and explain that families may hold different beliefs about what follows.
- Themes
- Death and remembrance: Mog dies, remains imaginatively present while the family grieves, and is remembered after her death. Death is presented directly but gently, with mourning balanced by humour and affection; the story gives remembrance an important place.
- Making room for a new pet: After mourning Mog, Mrs Thomas brings home a shy kitten, which gradually settles and becomes the family’s new pet. The story portrays continuing family life and welcoming a new animal alongside ongoing love for Mog.
- Worth knowing
- The death happens at the beginning and remains the emotional centre. Mog’s imagined presence in the sky and the family’s tears may need attention, particularly if a child is grieving or worried about a pet.