You Are Always With Me:
A Poem for Those at Home When a Loved One Deploys
On sale now through Amazon and all major book retailers!
Release by Heart Forge Publishing May 1, 2020!
Bronze Medal Winner in the 2020 MWSA Book Award Contest!
Click HERE for more info about the contest
A beautifully illustrated children’s book designed to help deployed service members, and the deployed civilians who support them, connect with their loved-ones.
Written by an author who has worked in support of the military overseas, “You Are Always With Me” is an illustrated rhyming poem intended for those at home when a service member or civilian deploys. The poem reassures those encountering this separation by addressing the emotions they often feel:
Abandonment
Anger
Confusion
Sadness
Fear for their deployed loved one
“You Are Always With Me” depicts two cartoon rabbits, one leaving for deployment, and the other staying home. The book contains a personalized dedication page, and is a perfect gift for any loved-one coping with separation during deployment, to include:
Children
Husband or wife
Girlfriend or boyfriend
Niece or nephew
Although many women service members deploy, as do many civilians, most of the books on this subject are intended for families of male soldiers. “You are Always With Me” is unique in that it is appropriate for any branch of service, and any age, race, or gender.
From deployment through homecoming, this book is indispensable in helping those who serve bridge the distance to connect in a meaningful way with those they love.
“As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am well aware of the effects separation has on a family. Bonding and attachment are essential to healthy development. Long absences from a loved one is challenging, whether it is military or civilian deployments. “You Are Always With Me” is something tangible to read and hold, and will bring comfort and connection to those left at home. Children, in particular, do better with something material when there is going to be a separation and this book is perfect for that.
“This touching poem captures the nuances unique to deployed families. The gender-neutral illustrations are thoughtful and inviting and make this book applicable to many family formations.”
Dr. Katie Godfrey, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
What readers are saying about the book…
That separation is temporary and reunions are permanent!
Lance M.
“…You Are Always With Me” is in a category all by itself! The book focuses on the very real separation anxiety children and spouses feel when a loved one deploys over seas for long periods of time. From the first page to the last page, I found the book conveys the constant underlining theme intended to provide comfort and security for those suffering anxiety and heartache over long periods…”
A must for children or deployed family members
Joe S.
“This an amazing book written by an amazing man to comfort his family while he was deployed. This is the perfect book to read to children every night before bed when a parent or loved one is away on deployment. It has been written from the heart from a real hero, a parent and soldier.”
Wonderful Heartfelt Story
Emilie W.
“A warm and touching poem complete with adorable images to explain to children and loved ones of service members who have to leave to serve their country. Our daughter requests this story many times, undoubtedly for its smooth flow of loving words. Highly recommend!”
Excellent Resource for Families With Loved Ones Deployed
Brian W.
“A heartwarming and touching poem that speaks to all families who have been separated from a loved one. Eloquently written for all ages “You Are Always With Me” imparts the emotions and feelings that pull at the heart of children and adults alike…”
Touched me deeply
Dave J.
“Dan and I flew together in AFG a few years ago. He sent me an advance copy to read. For over thirty years I have flown missions for several agencies. Leaving home and seeing my children’s questioning eyes always tore at my heart. I wish I had had this book to read to them.”
Hits Home
Preston R.
“This book hits close to home for those who are away from their family for extended periods of time. My children enjoy the illustrations and the poem itself as it helps them deal with their emotions. This book helps connect what the characters in the story are experiencing with the real life scenario we experience while I am away for work. Very well written and great illustrations.”
Beautifully written! Thank you for saying what I try to say to my children when I have to deploy!
John R.
“What a beautiful story about a deployed soldier or contractor leaving his family. It is wonderfully written and relates a simple message: no matter what, remember I am leaving for you and I will be back very soon.
So thankful to have been able to read this book to my children. They loved the story!”
A must for any parent who deploys
Anthony T.
“I was given a pre-release copy of this book from the author and couldn't wait to read it to my two-year-old. She was too young to remember my last trip abroad, but with a trip on the horizon, I've been reading it to her often. She loves the illustrations! The poem itself is easy to follow for a kid her age, but with deep meaning that an older child can understand. This book will be well worn by the time our next one comes along, so I look forward to Dan's future books! Kiddo want's to add something. Go ahead kiddo: “Bunny!"“
Highly Recommended
Dave A.
“This is a great book for anyone who has to spend time away from their kids”