Review by Gerard P. Galle, M.D.
Under the Crybaby Tree is a metaphorical children’s book with an entertaining but directed story line.
Sheila Booth-Alberstadt has contributed a book dealing with an ever more frequent occurrence in our society, children in the care of guardians or family due to parents affected by substance abuse or destructive lifestyles.
Though probably not for all children, but for counselors and caretakers this book could be a valuable starting point for conversation in a difficult situation. Written in a manner not so subtle as to lose its meaning and colorfully illustrated in a fun way for what remains a serious matter, I would recommend it as a resource for discussion, for explanation, and for consolation.
Gerard P. Galle, M.D.
Review by Michelle M. Thomason
In the courtroom, we see many children that are forced to bear the consequences of their parents’ inappropriate actions and poor choices. It tears your heart out to speak with these children and see the loneliness, guilt, and fear that is unjustly placed upon them. Before now, words have been completely insufficient to help these children understand that the actions of their parents are not their fault. In Under the Crybaby Tree, Booth-Alberstadt creates a masterful story of choices, of consequences and of love. It subtly and succinctly directs children to good moral choices, by teaching them that with their choices, consequences follow, hopefully breaking a cycle for future generations. Importantly, I believe that any child that can relate to Lulu and Kite will take away from this book comfort, peace and hope, and the knowledge that they will never be alone. Truly, Under the Crybaby Tree is a brilliant work that I hope to see in counselors’ offices, children’s ministry areas and in every Family Court judges’s chambers.
Honorable Michelle M. Thomason
