The Empty Chair in Childrenâs Picture Books: More Than Just a âClassic Imageâ

Maggie Jackson

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Chapter 11 The Empty Chair in Childrenâs Picture Books: More Than Just a âClassic Imageâ

In: Grief, Identity, and the Arts

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Maggie Jackson

Maggie Jackson
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Type:: Chapter

Pages:: 186â197

DOI:: https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004158719_016

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Abstract

The image of the empty chair as a metaphor for loss is well known in works for adults but is less frequently used in childrenâs picture books. This may not be surprising when we consider the weight of meaning the empty chair conveys in one simple, stark image. The empty chair functions beyond the words used in the books and allows the child to make meaning from the image. It can allow the child to ask questions not posed by any text alongside the image and also provides a vehicle for the child to access the âbig questionsâ about loss. Childrenâs picture books can use this level of profound communicationâtaking the child to a level of understanding beyond that which adults might normally expect of the very youngâtending as we do to shield them from difficult subjects. The images allow us to consider not only loss but offers ideas of hope and continuity. This chapter looks at two powerful examples of the empty chair in picture books.

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Grief, Identity, and the Arts

A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Expressions of Grief

Series:Â Death in History, Culture, and Society, Volume: 1

E-Book ISBN:: 9789004158719

Publisher:: Brill

Print Publication Date:: 15 Nov 2022

Subjects

Front Matter

Part 1 Collective Religious Identities

Part 2 Personal Religious Identities

Part 3 National Identities

Part 4 Family Identities/The Inner Circle

Part 5 Social/Societal Identities

Part 6 Identities of a Genre/Artistic Identity

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Chapter 11 The Empty Chair in Childrenâs Picture Books: More Than Just a âClassic Imageâ

Abstract

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Grief, Identity, and the Arts

A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Expressions of Grief

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Chapter 11 The Empty Chair in Childrenâs Picture Books: More Than Just a âClassic Imageâ