Mick Harte Was Here facts for kids
First edition cover
|
|
| Author | Barbara Park |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's novel |
| Publisher | Yearling (a division of Random House) |
|
Publication date
|
August 27, 1995 |
| ISBN | 0-679-88203-0 |
Mick Harte Was Here is a book written by Barbara Park. It tells the story of a thirteen-year-old girl named Phoebe. She is trying to understand and deal with the death of her younger brother, Mick. Mick died in a bicycle accident because he wasn't wearing his helmet. The book won the William Allen White Children's Book Award in 1998.
Understanding Grief and Safety
What the Story is About
The story is told by Phoebe Harte, who is thirteen years old. Her younger brother, Mick, dies in a bicycle accident. He was not wearing his helmet at the time. This causes a lot of sadness for Phoebe and her parents.
The book shows how Mick's death affects his friends and classmates. It also explores how Phoebe and her parents deal with their grief. Phoebe shares many of her favorite memories of Mick. These memories often include the funny pranks Mick liked to play on his family and friends.
The author, Barbara Park, shows the family's pain in a very real way. She focuses on small, important moments. For example, when Phoebe's father comes home from the hospital, he quietly closes the door to Mick's room. This shows how sad everyone is without being overly dramatic.
Why Helmets Are Important
Besides showing how people deal with sadness, the book also teaches about bicycle safety. It strongly suggests that Mick would not have died if he had worn his helmet.
At one point, Phoebe feels guilty about Mick's death. Her father sighs and says, "If only I had made him wear his helmet." This shows how important helmets are.
Later in the book, Phoebe starts to move past her own pain and anger. She takes part in a school assembly about bicycle safety. This powerful scene shows her growth. The book makes it clear that wearing a helmet can save lives. However, the story never feels like a simple warning. It focuses more on the family's feelings and journey.
