SuitabookGone from These Woods
Donny Bailey Seagraves
- Reading
- Consider reading together or checking in after the opening accident and scenes involving Daniel’s father. Let the child set the pace, and pause if the grief or self-directed gun threat feels upsetting.
- Themes
- Grief, guilt and memory: After Clay dies, Daniel struggles with guilt and painful reminders, while memories of happier times become important to him. The story presents grief as difficult and uneven, with memories helping Daniel begin to move forward.
- Family strain: Daniel’s father drinks and has a harsh temper; Daniel’s mother tries to support him, and he eventually finds strength to confront his father. Daniel eventually finds strength to confront his father.
- Worth knowing
- Bereavement, guilt and distress are central. The story also includes a fatal gun accident, a boy pointing a shotgun at himself, and an alcoholic father described as abusive or bullying.