The beginning : a multicultural introduction to death and afterlife for children

Abstract

Purpose of project : In Asia, the subject of death is a taboo that is rarely or perhaps never brought up in conversations between parents and their children. Ironically, avoidance of the topic causes inadequate education, resulting in children growing up with a fear of death. The project thus seeks to create a starting point for parents to broach the controversial subject. Design methodology : The Beginning is an illustrated storybook about a little girl who has recently lost a grandparent. She is taken on a journey by magical sprites to understand death and beliefs of the afterlife in a Singaporean context. It utilizes engaging illustrations to introduce children to this grave subject, creating a safe space for both children and parents to ease into a conversation. Originality: The lack, moreover, of children’s literature that addresses death and the afterlife in a local context points to the necessity of such a book. Specialization :Visual Communication. Key words: Death, Mulitcultural, Conversation, Introduction