A MOTHER from Bow who wrote a story as part of coming to terms with the death of her husband has seen the work published.

Carol Lee was inspired to write 'Saying Goodbye to Hare' in the summer of 2011 after a vivid dream. She sat down and wrote the emotionally charged original story in just four hours.

She approached friend and illustrator Donna Bell to create the book's illustrations, which help to tell the tale of a young rabbit witnessing the life, illness and death of his dear friend, Hare. The illustrations also incorporate the Dartmoor countryside, with Cosdon Hill and the Dartmoor landscape and wildlife inspiring the pictures.

Carol wrote the story as part of her own healing process. Her husband Andy died a year and a day after he was first diagnosed with cancer. The story explores some of the feelings and questions children have about death, and helps them to voice their feelings.

Carol said: 'What children need most is facts, honesty, and a chance to explore and voice their feelings and their natural, optimistic nature. The way they always look forward in life means that they will naturally move on and heal much more easily than adults.

'For me, writing this book and seeing it going out into the world brings some sort of resolution to my healing journey, as I have come to terms with Andy's death. 

'To make something positive out of Andy's death feels amazing and transforming. I can't put into words how exciting it is for me and the boys.'

Carol is a grief support worker for Balloons, a charity that provides support for children, young people and their families before an expected death, or following the death, of someone significant in their lives.

The author and illustrator have undertaken their work on the book as a gift to Balloons, which will benefit from the sales of the book. 

Saying Goodbye to Hare will be sold nationally – helping schools, hospices, charities and families to support children to better understand, and talk about, bereavement.

The book can be ordered from Southgate Publishers by calling 01363 776888. It is also available in Waterstones' Exeter High Street and Exeter Roman Gate stores.