Talitha Vickers

Why My Hero Had to Go Talitha Vickers

Changes in life are constant but can often be difficult for children to grasp. "Why My Hero Had to Go" offers a way for children to relate to what change can look and feel like while also bringing a sense of understanding through courage, kindness, responsibility and inclusion. This unique and vibrant picture book has a little something for everyone.




Take a journey through the pages as the curtain is pulled back to show the heartfelt voice of a parent leaving for deployment or as a front line worker. This unique picture book brings to life the parallel experiences of a parent and a child separated by the call of duty. Children gain a better sense of understanding and responsibility as they tag along with the main character Jared, who is on a "special mission" with pet Bailey and his cuddly toy bear.




With heartfelt poetic words "Why My Hero Had to Go" offers a different perspective for children to know that they are not alone when a parent is called to service. Creating a book that speaks to the voice of the untold stories was critical to author Talitha Vickers who also comes from a military family. Drawing from her own personal experience with her nephew Jared, Vickers puts words to emotions that there are often no words for. It's a powerful teaching tool with foreshadowing messages that truly resonates with all readers. The creative imagination of illustrator Keith Hobgood opens the door to a world that a child would otherwise never see though each hand drawn page. The nontraditional layout of Hobgood's illustrations shows just how much a child and parent have in common every day despite being separated by distance.




This educational tool serves as a critical resource for all front line workers, military families, their neighbors, teachers and fellow students to have a first-hand look at a different perspective of families with a unique dynamic.