Donia Youssef’s books and other resources for cancer survivors, families, and caregivers.
Grandma's Sunset Goodbye is a heartfelt picture book that helps children navigate the difficult journey of loss and remembering a loved one. One afternoon, Katie comes home from school to the devastating news that her beloved grandma has passed away. Her mom, tearful in the kitchen, explains the sadness of Grandma’s battle with cancer. As the family prepares for the funeral, Katie experiences a whirlwind of emotions—grief, confusion, and longing. But even in the midst of sorrow, Katie finds warmth and comfort in memories filled with love and laughter. She learns from family friends about different ways people from various cultures say goodbye to those they've lost, opening her eyes to the many ways we honor our loved ones. As Katie struggles with her grief, she slowly begins to understand that love doesn’t end when someone is gone. She imagines her grandmother peacefully sailing into a sunset, a beautiful and comforting symbol of her final journey. Grandma's Sunset Goodbye is not just a story—it's a gentle guide for young readers as they explore feelings of grief, understand diverse traditions around mourning, and discover that love lasts forever. It’s a comforting resource for any child dealing with the loss of a grandparent, offering hope and peace during a difficult time.
Monster in Wonderland: A Journey of Hope and Healing" is a heart-touching picture book crafted to support children coping with a family member's illness. In this beautifully illustrated tale, the fox family enjoys a peaceful life in their cozy den amidst lush meadows. But their world turns upside down when Mummy Fox falls gravely ill, casting a shadow of gloom over their once happy home. As Mummy Fox battles her illness, the family embarks on an inspiring quest to The Enchanted Forest, a place rumored to hold the key to healing and hope. Their journey is filled with challenges, but it's also a testament to the power of courage, love, and family bonds in the face of adversity. Intended for young readers, "Monster in Wonderland" is more than just a story; it's a source of comfort and understanding for children navigating the difficult emotions associated with a loved one's illness. It highlights the significance of staying united and hopeful, even during life's darkest moments.
This beautiful colouring book offers more than just a captivating adventure—it’s a therapeutic journey for both children and adults alike. As you step into a magical world, you'll follow the brave fox family on their urgent quest to save Mummy Fox, who falls seriously ill after a dangerous encounter with a dark force. Their path leads them to The Enchanted Forest, where they search for help. While you colour the enchanting illustrations, you’ll not only create your own masterpieces but also experience the calming and healing effects of art therapy. For both kids and adults, colouring can be a powerful way to relieve stress, spark creativity, and find comfort in tough times. Created by Donia Youssef, the acclaimed author and producer of The Monster series, this colouring book combines the therapeutic benefits of art with a touching story about courage, love, and the bond of family. It’s a perfect escape for anyone looking to nurture both their mind and heart.
Join in the unforgettable journey of Willow, an 11-year-old mixed heritage Caribbean and English girl, trying to deal with the loss of her mother. With the help of Sadie, the wise talking dog, Willow finds a grove where she is surrounded by magical creatures of myth. Willow now is going to save it from an aggressive development company. Willow's path through the stages of grief mirrors her fight for the protection of the grove. This is a beautifully illustrated story, weaving acceptance, strength from within, and conservation of the environment with a visual and emotional feast. "Willow's Journey: Book one” is the first in a series of seven books, each about a stage of grief. Follow Willow's story as she rediscovers hope and acceptance, turning her world from muted greys to rich colour. This series will touch your heart and ignite your imagination, perfect for readers who cherish stories of resilience, magic, and the power of nature.
"Monster in Mummy" is a deeply compassionate picture book, crafted with care to help parents navigate the emotional journey of discussing a cancer diagnosis with their children. It's more than just words on a page—it’s a lifeline for families facing one of the most difficult conversations they’ll ever have. This book offers more than comfort; it provides practical support for parents unsure of how to approach such overwhelming news, and for children who may feel confused or scared. Through its tender storytelling, "Monster in Mummy" creates a safe space for young minds to explore the complexities of illness, loss, and hope. With empathy woven into every page, it reassures children that, even in times of sorrow, love and understanding endure. It’s a gentle yet powerful reminder that healing comes not just from medicine, but from the shared journey of facing hardship together. For families, this book serves as a heartfelt embrace, offering both guidance and a comforting belief in brighter days ahead.