Taking the “Duh” Out of Divorce

One of several titles in a new series from bestselling author/illustrator and kids' advocate Trevor Romain—tackling difficult children's topics using a blend of animated and live action storytelling, backed by music and humor—Taking the “Duh” Out of Divorce follows animated 12-year-old Skye's struggle to cope with her parents' divorce. Hurt and angry, Skye believes she can keep her mom and dad together and embarks on a mission to accomplish same—asking questions of her parents and friends—before finally becoming exhausted and falling into an instructive dream, in which she takes her parents to court to prevent the breakup, with her friends serving as her defense lawyer and witnesses, and an animated Trevor acting as the judge. During the trial, Skye tries to figure out how she will cope with practical arrangements like living in two houses and visitation procedures during the holidays, as well as emotional issues, such as the discomfort of explaining her parents' divorce to friends. In the end, she learns the main lesson: namely, that it's important to share feelings, pointless to blame herself, and that her parents will always love her no matter what happens. A compassionate, comforting, and gently humorous approach to a delicate subject, the DVD includes a resource guide for parents and educators, as well as special features such as music videos and karaoke. Recommended. [Note: another Trevor Romain title, Facing Fear Without Freaking Out, is also newly available.] Aud: E, P. (A. Cantú)