Our Book

This unique and beautifully illustrated book
portrays the deep emotions of a child's grief after a mother’s death.

Told from the perspective of two lion cubs, their father
and an understanding elephant on the African Savannah.

Two Brave Cubs is ultimately a tale of hope and love.

How to Use the Book
Two Brave Cubs - Finding Help When Children Grieve is written for adults and children to explore the deep emotions of a child’s grief over a mother’s death.

Told from the perspective of two lion cubs, their father and an understanding elephant on the African Savannah, the power of the story comes alive through words and illustrations affirming and giving voice to the child’s experience of loss and grief.

Grief is the necessary process of healing from loss at any age. There isn’t a right way to grieve. Each child’s grief is unique and will be revisited, though not as intensely, throughout their life. They don’t need to be “fixed”… just listened to and loved.

We, as caring adults, can offer a supportive, consistent and loving relationship where children feel safe. Like the understanding elephant in the story, being available to a grieving child is the greatest gift we can give.

As an adult, you should take time to read through the book first before reading it with a child to prepare for the emotions that may come up from the reading. Take your time reading with a child allowing pauses to explore the pictures and talk about what is being read. If the child is very young, they may want to just look at the pictures.

Meet the Creators
Nancy Ballinger, author

Email: [email protected]



Nancy has spent many years as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with Hospice, substance abuse programs, in schools and private practice and organizations serving people affected by HIV/AIDS and Hep C. Some of her most precious moments as a therapist have been time spent supporting children. Their wisdom, tenacity, courage and ability to survive and thrive through crisis inspired her to write this book, based on the true story of two brave young children and the adults in their lives.

She lives on the beautiful coast of Central California with her husband Ron Schow. They love playing music, working in their garden and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Nancy is the founding director of Awakening Interfaith Spiritual Community, a meditation center based on the teachings of Kriya Yoga in Los Osos, Ca.


Marcy Adams and Julie Frankel, illustration and design

Marcy’s 40 year dream of illustrating a meaningful children’s book was answered when Nancy invited her to be on this team. Nancy and Marcy worked together in the early grassroots days of Hospice of San Luis Obispo.

Marcy and Julie also live on the Central Coast with their families. Both are inspired by the vibrancy of local nature. Collaborating as an illustrator and graphic designer fueled creative exploration and brought the book to life.


Coalesce Press

A beloved, independent bookstore, Coalesce Bookstore has supported Central Coast authors since opening its doors in 1973. Owner Linna Thomas is honored to be one of the team members of Two Brave Cubs.


Nancy Ballinger, Julie Frankel,
Marcy Adams, and Linna Thomas
501(c)(3), Federal Tax ID: 88-3481441