Expat author and UAE-based business owner Robyn Fok explores coping with the loss of a beloved pet in new book
15 March 2023
| Last updated on 20 March 2023
The book can be given for children and grown-ups.
Expat Robyn Fok, who is also the founder of UAE-based dog care shop Rory's Apawthecary, published a moving picturebook entitled Under the Mango Tree.
A touching and uplifting tale, the brightly illustrated and heartwarming storybook tackles the themes of death, grief, and loss in a way that even children can understand. While the book focuses more on the loss of a beloved pet, its story can be applied to all forms of loss and grief, including family and friends.
In the story, the journey of bereavement that began with grief and confusion eventually leads to a heart-freeing realisation that those who pass away do not simply disappear; their memories live on in the hearts of those who love and care for them forever.
'Under the Mango Tree' is inspired by Fok’s dearest furry family member, Rory, an American Cocker Spaniel who, after passing away in August of 2022, now lays at rest under a mango tree. Fok hopes to provide solace to others coping with loss through the new book.
"I have written this book to be an uplifting and encouraging way to help others who have experienced loss, to feel loved and supported," said Author Robyn Fok.
"As I worked through these tough emotions myself when Rory passed away, I realized that many others who are part of the Rory’s Apawthecary community have also gone through the same difficulties when they too lost their furry family. It is a natural part of pet ownership and I hope that this book can help others in their process of finding peace and light in a time of darkness," Fok continued.
Fok added: "While both human and pet loss are valid and difficult, people who experience pet loss often do not get the support they need from their community and society when their pet passes away. Recovering from pet loss requires just as much support and consideration from our community and society."
Along with the release of the book 'Under the Mango Tree', Rory’s Apawthecary has also dedicated a section on the company’s website dedicated to offering support to pet parents and their families in the topic of Pet Loss. The page offers healthy grieving strategies and post-pet loss logistics assistance; the first of its kind in the UAE.
