Myra stands holding her father's hand as they watch their apartment building burn. Her father was only able to save his briefcase. Myra saved her pet turtle, Aerobella, who watches the fire with them. The fire is the impetus for her father to tell Myra that it's time to let Aerobella go.
Myra's terribly saddened by her father's decision. She and Aerobella have been together since she was four when she promised to care for it and protect it. They are the best friends, watching TV together and going for walks with Aerobella on a leash.
A lesson in letting go is gently rendered in AEROBELLA. Perhaps the most graceful element of the book is knowing when not to use words. The last couple of pages tell the story in simple pictures, simply allowing a silent to tell the story. What a marvelous opening for a parent to step in and fill the silence with the words their own child needs, or for the child to say what they think about the ending. Be careful, though. This story will touch your heart, and may provoke a tear. The beauty of the tale and the beautiful watercolor illustrations make AEROBELLA a must read. Ciny Penn, Midwest Book Review, Winner of the WordWeaving Award for Excellence.