Please Explain Terrorism to Me: A Story for Children, P-E-A-R-L-S of Wisdom for Their Parents

A Story for Children, P-E-A-R-L-S of Wisdom for their Parents


Complemented by exquisite, colorful artwork, Dr. Zelinger skillfully crafts an easily relatable children’s story using everyday situations, around the oppressive concept of Terrorism in the news. With masterful understanding of the child’s world, new and frightening concepts are introduced carefully and gently, with the child’s perspective in mind. Dr. Zelinger provides parent coaching to further the dialogue in her P-E-A-R-L-S of Wisdom section (Prepare, Explain, Answer, Reassure, Listen, Safeguard) where caregivers are given scripts to guide them, as well room for individuality. This pioneer book helps children and parents face a critical, often avoided topic with reassurance and calm.


“This book provides the ‘PEARLS’ of wisdom for parents and children to discuss a scary topic like terrorism in ways that promote healthy and authentic parent-child conversations that yield to mutual respect and bonding.”

—Marc A. Brackett, PhD., Director, Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence


“This fascinating guide amounts to a riveting lesson of clarity and to a masterpiece in bridging the unbridgeable.”

—Hon. Yehuda Lancry, Former Ambassador of Israel to the U.N.


“Dr. Zelinger uses common sense, a simple clarification of the basic issues, and reassurance to provide a deeper understanding of terrorism for kids—without a corresponding rise in anxiety.”

—Tomas W. Phelan, Ph.D., Psychologist/Author


Dr. Laurie Zelinger is a distinguished Board Certified Psychologist with Diplomate status in school psychology as well as a credentialed play therapist who serves on executive boards of state and national organizations.
Ann Israeli is a retired art teacher, wall paper and textile designer.


From the Growing With Love Series