Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Comforting story of connection and binding love.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
THE INVISIBLE STRING starts with a rainstorm that wakes up brother and sister twins, who jump out of bed and run to their mom in the living room because they're scared. "We want to stay close to you," says Jeremy. "You know we're always together, no matter what," says Mom. "But how can we be together when you're out here and we're in bed?" asks Liza. Then Mom explains that there's an Invisible String that connects them at all times, and you can feel it with your heart. The rest of the book shows examples of the String between pets, best friends, etc. It's there no matter where you go, even in a submarine in the ocean, climbing a mountain, or dancing in France, exploring a jungle, or as an astronaut floating in space. It can even reach up to "heaven" to your deceased uncle. And it never goes away, "even when you're mad at us?" Never, says Mom. "Love is stronger than anger, and as long as love is in your heart, the String will always be there."
Is It Any Good?
This comforting picture book shows how kids are connected to their loved ones even when they're apart. Author Patrice Karst explains the metaphor of The Invisible String clearly and simply so kids can grasp it, offering many examples. And Joanne Lew-Vriethoff's exuberant, cartoon-like illustrations sweep readers up in imaginary scenarios of adventures undersea, in the word, and in space to show the power of love to reach you wherever you go.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the meaning of The Invisible String. How do you feel connected to your family and friends when they aren't nearby? Would imagining a string between you help you feel that connection?
How does it feel when someone you love is away on trip or when you're at school and they're at work all day? Do you miss them? What helps you still feel connected?
Does the mom do a good job of explaining the idea of the Invisible String to her kids? Why is communication an important character strength?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Character Strengths : Communication
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : October 30, 2018
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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