Zeke’s Story is inspired by the life of Adi Shani (highlight and link to “About Adi” page), 1984-2023. Adi was a very curious and mischievous child and his life was filled with adventures and pranks. As he grew up, Adi became a brave protector and died a hero while defending his family. 
 
The idea of the book came to Keren while participating in an art therapy group lead by Dr. Ronen Berger with other bereaved adult siblings as a coping tool. 
 
The book was written with Adi’s three little girls in mind and is dedicated to them. Similarly it is dedicated to hundreds of children who have lost their dads and moms on October 7th, the Iron Swords War or any other circumstances and who are dealing with trauma or loss of a loved one.
 
The book may serve as a therapy tool for children to help them process grief. It is suggested that it be read with the support of an adult. It provides the child a safe space and an opportunity to identify with Zeke and his family who is left behind from a distant perspective of the family of trees. It touches on Zeke’s persona, humor, family, community, love and the processing of fear through the storm as well as the encounter with death. It invites the child to imagine, relate and create a space/s — whether physical or mental to memorialize loved ones. It offers ideas in which one can mourn the loss of their loved one with the suggestion that everyone mourns in different ways. 
 
Recommendations including “Zeke’s Memory Corner” (LINK to the page) were made by Dr. Dorit Dror Hadar who is a renowned expert in Drama Therapy.
 
Other components in Zeke’s playful and rambunctious persona may provide a relatable outlet for children with ADHD, learning disabilities or simply active dreamers who may feel different or misunderstood at times.