Where Did TJ Go?

Where Did TJ Go? is a gentle picture book for young children trying to understand the loss of a baby in the family. Written after the death of the author's baby nephew, the story gives children a soft, faith-based way to ask where the baby went, whether they are safe, and what love looks like after loss.

This book may be especially meaningful for Christian families looking for language around miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, or sibling grief. It does not avoid sadness, but it frames grief with tenderness, hope, and the belief that the child is loved and cared for in heaven. Because the afterlife message is specifically Christian, it will fit some families beautifully and may not be the right match for every grieving household.

The illustrations use bright colors, open backgrounds, and nature imagery to soften the book’s grief-centered subject matter. Trees, birds, sky, and outdoor spaces give the pages a peaceful, spacious feeling, helping the story feel gentle rather than heavy or frightening.

Characters are drawn with simple faces and clear expressions, which keeps the emotional tone accessible for young children. The visual style supports comfort and reassurance, especially through the book’s faith-based view of heaven and continued love after loss.

The inclusion of a real photograph of TJ and his brother adds a personal memorial element to the book. This detail may help caregivers understand the story’s real-life roots, while also making the loss feel more concrete and personal.