When Things Pass Away
Life is full of beautiful moments—but it also brings change, loss, and the deep emotions that come with them. When Things Pass Away by Dr. Tevis Harris is a touching, beautifully illustrated children’s book that helps young readers and their families navigate the complex emotions of grief and loss.
Follow Theo, a curious and thoughtful child, as he observes the world around him. From the changing of the seasons to the heartfelt loss of his beloved dog, Taz, and the passing of his grandfather, Theo begins to understand that everything in life has its time. Through tender conversations with his mom and memories of love and joy, Theo learns that while things may pass away, the love and memories they leave behind never fade.
Written with sensitivity and warmth, When Things Pass Away provides an accessible way to explore topics like death, grief, and healing. Complete with a discussion guide, the book is a valuable tool for families, educators, and caregivers, offering comfort and sparking important conversations about love, loss, and resilience.
Whether you’ve experienced loss or simply want to prepare young hearts for life’s inevitable changes, When Things Pass Away is a story that will resonate, inspire, and remind readers of all ages that even in grief, hope endures.
About the Author
Dr. Tevis Harris is an educator, singer-songwriter, producer, author, and creative storyteller passionate about inspiring young minds and supporting their emotional growth. During his time as a school principal, Tevis experienced the profound impact of grief firsthand when one of his beloved students, Uriah, passed away in 2017. This event moved him to create a story that could help children and adults navigate their own feelings of loss and healing. His debut children’s book, When Things Pass Away, was born from that heartfelt need to comfort and guide his students and staff through a difficult time.
Tevis has dedicated years to nurturing curiosity and a love for learning. When he isn’t busy singing or crafting new songs or stories, he enjoys spending time with his family, exploring nature, playing the piano, dancing, and championing community initiatives that make education fun and accessible. Tevis is married and has two children, Carsen and Nolan. He lives in Rocky Mount, NC, and believes that every story and song has the power to spark imagination, build resilience, and brighten a child’s world. Tevis believes that we can heal the world, one book, one story at a time.
Testimonials
"This book serves as a powerful catalyst for discussing a challenging but inevitable part of life for many young people. By framing death as a natural part of the life cycle, it offers a sensitive and accessible way to explore a topic we all face. The narrative thoughtfully begins with examples of living things we often overlook, like leaves, and gradually progresses to pets and humans, creating a gentle yet impactful build.
The inclusion of discussion questions at the end provides an excellent tool for initiating meaningful conversations, making it easier to navigate such a delicate subject. This is an outstanding resource for opening much-needed dialogue. Highly recommended!"
~ André Green, Ph.D., Dean and Professor, College of Education, East Carolina University
"Bravo Tevis! My son experienced the loss of his father (9/17/2023) at a tender age of 6 and we've both been grieving ever since. It's tough; however, it's promising to have a resource such as this to assist in this very difficult process."
~ CaHarmoni Smith, Grieving wife with a grieving child
"Dr Harris' insightful childrens' book, When Things Pass Away, offers a unique, sensitive way to open the often difficult discussion of loss with our children. Through the lens of losses in nature, our beloved pets and family members, he allows young readers the opportunity to grapple with and understand the difficult, uncomfortable emotions associated with death and loss. This book should be required reading in every College of Education as well as every elementary school library."
~ Marilynn Anselmi, Educator, Playwright, Artisan
“This book is an excellent resource for young readers navigating grief. It helps them understand that feelings of sadness and loss are natural, making it easier for children to accept and process their emotions. As a mental health provider, I believe this approach is essential for supporting their healing journey.”
~ Alicia Battle, LCMHC,Owner of Battle Mental Health
"Dr. Harris, I experienced the loss of my Godmother in November and two days later, my Mother. Two weeks later my First cousin and in the same week a best friend. My two kids and my grandson took it very hard. Yes, this book will help us a lot. Thank you and well job done! I would like to pass this on to my family and friends in Atlanta, GA.
~ Tanngenia Humphrey
“Grief can be challenging to comprehend at any age. As a pediatrician, I’m often asked by parents how to address this difficult subject with their children. Now, thanks to Dr. Tevis Harris’ insightful book, When Things Pass Away, I have a powerful new resource to support both my patients and their families on their healing journeys.”
~ Charnette H. Shade, MD, FAAP
"As both an educator and co-founder of my daughter’s nonprofit, I believe this book is a crucial tool for parents, caregivers, and educators. It paves the way for important discussions about loss, love, and resilience. I invite you to embrace this story and share it with the children in your lives, helping them navigate their feelings with courage and compassion.
In memory of my daughter, I commend When Things Pass Away for its unwavering commitment to supporting young hearts and the caring adults around them through the complexities of grief, reminding us all that love truly knows no end and we are not alone."
~ Dr. Kristen Cuthrell, Long-Time Educator, Scholar, Grieving Mother, and Co-Founder of Hannah’s Heroes of NC
“This book provides a valuable resource for supporting students who are experiencing or have experienced a loss. Parents, teachers, and other caring adults should consider adding this book to their repertoire for assisting students in navigating an especially difficult aspect of development. The well-crafted narrative and complementary artwork blend seamlessly to offer a sensitive, thoughtful, and engaging work.”
~ Dr. Jerry Johnson, Professor of Educational Leadership, Phoebe Moore Dail Distinguished Professor in Rural Education
To children all over the world,
Death and grief are real, and so are your feelings and emotions. Grief is the deep sadness we feel when someone or something we love is gone. I hope this book helps you as you navigate this space. You are not alone.
With love,
Dr. Tevis Harris