Where is Bejou


Children - Picture Book
36 Pages
Reviewed on 02/11/2021
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Hiba Shublak has a B.S. in Child Development and M.A. in Education and is the founder of Active Learning and ALBI (Performing Arts Programs). She has developed award winning musical theatre, dance and PE programs and curricula throughout California. Her accomplishments include developing innovative resources, publications and programs to maximize healthy communities rich in the arts.

She wrote this story after experiencing loss in her lifetime with the hope of inspiring others to be grateful for having loved ones, and for the positive marks they leave in our lives.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Erin Nicole Cochran for Readers' Favorite

Hiba Shublak’s Where is Bejou? is a children’s picture book that has a sweet-natured narrative throughout. It focuses on a little girl who is searching for her beloved dog Bejou and comes across a variety of other creature characters that point her in the direction of her dog’s path. There are also one-liners at the end of each page that tell readers about something in the picture, what a certain flower or bug may mean. I feel children, as well as adults, will really respond to this. The illustrations are whimsical. Several people participated in the creation of the overall concept, illustrations, and background including the author Hiba Shublak, Sam Vest, and Pamela Rodil.

Where is Bejou? by Hiba Shublak tugged at my heartstrings. After a few pages, I was crying from sadness, but also joy. Shublak was able to really find a way to make the passing of a loved one feel beautiful and not an ending, but more like a “see you again, when it’s your time.” I wish I had had this book when I was a child. Even if you don’t have pets, I would highly recommend Hiba Shublak’s Where is Bejou? It works on many levels of loss, and I truly think it’s something that children will be able to comprehend, and will make it less scary for them when or if that day has already come.

Melinda Facal

Where is Bejou? is a children’s picture book by Hiba Shublak with illustrations by Sam Vest. In this poignant story, a little girl searches for her beloved dog, Bejou, who brought tremendous joy to her and to everyone who knew him. Beautiful and detailed illustrations accompany this story and brilliantly capture the emotions experienced when dealing with grief and loss. Many animals such as Mr. Porcupine and Mrs. Sheep help the little girl in her search for her pet. As she continues looking for Bejou, the young girl comes to terms with the loss of her dear pet. Throughout this touching story, words of hope and encouragement are offered that emphasize how change is a natural part of life and that although loss occurs, the deep bonds and powerful love that exist between people and pets are everlasting and can never be broken.

Hiba Shublak’s Where is Bejou? is a gentle and caring book that compassionately addresses the challenges of loss and grief. I think this story will be helpful for children and families as it may encourage a discussion about the myriad of emotions that often occur when facing the loss of a pet or a loved one. Readers will be comforted as this story acknowledges how difficult acceptance of loss can be, while at the same time it offers reassurance that healing will take place. This heartfelt story highlights the significance of remembering and appreciating the happiness, love and special times shared with pets and loved ones. Where is Bejou? is a highly recommended story that will provide consolation and hope to many.

Cheryl E. Rodriguez

Where is Bejou? written by Hiba Shublak is a heartwarming tale of love and loss. The sweet fur-baby known as Bejou has gone missing. His little girl goes out to search for him. As she looks, she stops to ask her animal friends if they have seen her beloved dog. Everyone knows and loves Bejou. The fun-loving pup makes everyone feel special and thankful. Bejou leaves a paw print of kindness on all he meets. The little girl finds Bejou. However, Bejou must say goodbye. Although the little girl is sad to see him go, she smiles, knowing that Bejou will live forever in her heart.

Hiba Shublak pens a captivating and compassionate children’s story in Where is Bejou? Touching the hearts of young and old alike, Where is Bejou? is easy to read and understand. The foundational theme of the story is overcoming the loss of a loved one, especially that of a pet. “Life is a balance of holding on and letting go.” Using nature as a storyteller, the narrative includes simple, yet symbolic messages of inspiration, friendship, and the importance of making a difference in other’s lives. Furthermore, the illustrations and art designs of Sam Vest and Pamela Rodil are colorful, playful, and enhance the tone of the storyline. The animal characters are fun and memorable. Their subtle nuances of humanity are delightful. Hiba Shublak tells her story with empathy and an understanding of child development. Where is Bejou? weaves happiness and sadness together, leaving the reader with a blanket of hope to cuddle up with in the midst of their grief.

Sefina Hawke

Where is Bejou by Hiba Shublak is a children’s picture book that is particularly well suited for young readers who are dealing with the grief and loss that comes from losing a beloved pet. The book follows a young girl as she looks for Bejou, her lost dog. Along the way, she meets with some friends that help point her in the right direction. When the little girl finds her dog, she experiences sadness in knowing that it is his time, yet before he goes to the rainbow bridge, Bejou helps her to understand that they will both always be in each other’s heart.

Where is Bejou by Hiba Shublak is a beautifully illustrated book with a charming story that is easy for children to understand. The illustrations are simple, yet artistic and the bright colors are perfect for giving the book a happy feel while also serving to keep the interest of young children. The vocabulary also makes this book a good pick for children who are practicing their reading as the word choice is not too complicated and the pictures can provide clues to help children figure out the words. I liked that the author kept the concepts and the word choice suitable for young children and avoided using words like death and passed on in order to give the book a more optimistic feel. The book is well suited for helping children to understand that death is not the end while also avoiding controversial religious topics. I would personally recommend this book as a must-have for households that have young children and pets as it will help them to understand and come to terms with their loss and grief.

Sherri Fulmer Moorer

Addressing the concepts of death, grief, and loss is difficult for adults, so it takes a deft touch to handle it with children. Unfortunately, these are concepts that children are usually introduced to for the first time through the loss of a pet, and it can be difficult for parents and other adults to talk about what is still a taboo subject in society. Hiba Shublak offers a fresh solution by giving us one girl’s journey to discovery and understanding loss in her picture book Where is Bejou? In this book, a girl seeks her lost dog and not only finds friends but hope and encouragement along the way of what is one of the most difficult journeys we all must make.

I have to be honest and say that reviewing this book touched me in a unique way because I lost my own father two months ago, and even I found lessons to help with my own grief. Hiba Shublak takes a friendly and gentle approach not only with kind friends and characters, but with symbols of eternity, love, and hope that offer encouragement for understanding not only loss but how relationships transition over time. She tackles the subject in a simple manner that is easy to understand, sympathetic, and kind, which is just what you need in situations of loss and grief. Furthermore, the illustrations are well done and the story is easy to understand and interpret. Where is Bejou? is an excellent picture book that will help children understand loss in life, and even remind adults of timeless lessons that will carry them through to brighter tomorrows. It’s a children’s book, but I do believe that this is a message people of all ages need to hear. Well done.

Gio Helou

This is such a refreshing perspective on children’s emotional development reading! A MUST-READ for every household with little ones! And a FUN read :)

Ryan K

An excellent read for a sensitive subject. The kids loved it.

Paula Dulla

A tender story about the eternal love and bond between humans and their fur babies. This book truly touched my heart. Gives hope, inspiration and reminded me to be grateful for having loved ones, and the positive marks they have left in my life.

Nahyr

This book was a hit- though both of my girls did get teary and emotional but that just speaks to how deeply they connected to the characters. Also, as a Christian parent, this book also gave me a nice way to tie in that we reunite with loved ones in heaven.
Hiba Shublak fills her pages with uplifting affirmation phrases that correlate with the central tale about a bittersweet journey of love and loss.
As a parent and former educator, I recognize the loss for words that often comes with the more difficult topics such as death and Hiba does a beautiful job of addressing it in a way that acknowledges and honors the sadness but also leaves children and adults alike with an uplifting sense of hope.
This book is wonderfully written and it quickly became a favorite in our household! strongly recommend it.