Author: Winsome Bingham
Illustrator: Rahele Jomepour Bell
What do you do when someone that you love changes? Momma is a determined and lively person, who loves to spend time having fun with her kid. However, when she comes back home from a long deployment, something is different. Missing Momma, written by Winsome Bingham and illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell, explores grief through the eyes of a young child navigating life with her mother after she develops PTSD from her military service. The story creates a safe space for people to engage in conversation about coping and emotional resilience. It demonstrates that even though there may be dark days, the light can always shine through.
Extend your Learning:
Ask Questions:
Use these comprehension questions with your kids or students to build their literacy skills!
- What is the main idea of the story? What details let us know that this is the main idea?
- What were some of the ways that the narrator and her Momma spent time together?
- What did the narrator miss about her Momma?
- How do you think the narrator felt? Why do you think she felt this way?
- What did the narrator do to try to “bring back” her Momma?
- If your parent were feeling the same way as Momma, what are some ways you might try to help them out?
Discover More:
- If you are interested in learning more about PTSD, review this video: https://youtu.be/2KXtlIX_yUs?si=Ly5xwFDWgLATRkgo
- Here are resources for helping military children understand PTSD: Understanding PTSD: 5 Ways to Teach a Military Child About Mental Health – ASYMCA National Headquarters
Create:
Worry Stones
- If you or someone you know are looking for a trauma-informed activity to do on your own or with someone else, try this:
- What You’ll Need: Smooth stones, paint/markers, clear sealant
- What You’ll Do: Paint the rocks to your liking, with different designs, symbols, or calming colors. Let them dry and then keep them with you or in a special place to help ground you in times of stress.
Explore Your Local Library:
If you are one of our central Ohio neighbors, check out the book at your local branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library where the book is available. Then come to the NVMM and learn more about unique Veteran stories that can be found throughout American History.
