Intended for reading by children ages 2-6 who are experiencing being witnesses or victims in a crime, “Brave Oscar” is the story of a boy’s journey after his father is arrested.
In the story, Oscar meets with a victim advocate who counsels with him about going to court and testifying, as well as receiving support from his mom and friends. Throughout the story, readers learn about exercises and activities suggested for Oscar in dealing with his feelings. These include drawing pictures of places where he feels happy and safe; showing him pictures of people whose range of emotions expressed in facial features enable Oscar to identify to counselors how he is feeling; and breathing exercises that relieve tension. The story quotes conversations Oscar has with those who help him deal constructively with his feelings and answer his questions about new experiences and confusion about what is expected of him in new and strange criminal justice settings.