6 Feet Apart
by Linda M. Penn
Archway Publishing


"Delivery companies were having a hard time keeping up with demand, as people were turning to online shopping more than before the quarantine."

This unique book for children examines the myriad ways the COVID-19 pandemic changed one family's life practically overnight. As the world plunged into isolation, remote work, and the unknown, Nina and Andrew, two twins with busy social and family lives, strive to understand what is happening around them. They navigate sudden changes to their parents' work schedules, disruptions to their education, and social protocols such as masking. Moreover, they witness changes in the adult world: both their parents are stressed and overworked, while other families endure layoffs and financial hardship. The twins' experience underscores how the pandemic's sudden changes undeniably reshaped everyone. The narrrative also shows that, when one faces adversity, sometimes it is one's bonds with one's family that give an individual the strength to survive whatever may come.

This book is an unusual story of the pandemic because it is told from an adolescent viewpoint. This perspective offers an often humorous account of computer glitches and personal mishaps that sometimes provided much-needed laughter during an otherwise dark time. The book also contains a message about kindness and compassion. The afterword best sums up this message: "I personally feel that I have become a stronger person after having gone through the pandemic, and I could face any crisis with vigor. I also feel like I am more compassionate." It also asks, "Why not show kindness to others?" This question serves as an encouragement, motivating readers to make small acts of kindness an integral part of their everyday lives. This book is a fresh look at one of humanity's most tumultuous, shared experiences. It reminds its audience about the power of love, hope, and kindness.

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