Billy and Ant Fall Out: Pride

Written by James Mintner

Illustrated by Helen Rushworth

This is book two of a series of books that assist preteens in dealing with emotions. The subject of this one is pride. Mintner begins by explaining the two types of pride, the first rightfully acknowledging accomplishments, and the second which originates from ego and a false sense of superiority.

Billy has an argument with his best friend, Ant. When Ant ignores him and finds new friends, Billy becomes jealous and resentful. Deciding he knows better, Billy hangs out with older children who soon offer him the opportunity to make wrong choices and get into trouble. When Billy steals Ant’s bike, it seems as if their friendship might be lost forever.

Can Billy find a way to return to his former self and restore his values? This book is accompanied with an activity book that children can use to reinforce the book’s message.

Recommended for children ages seven through nine who are beginning to experience independence and the new emotions which accompany it.

Shreiks and Sounds and Things Abound:The Quiet Wars of Julien J.

Written by Dr. Drew Palacio

Illustrated by Etienne Apollinne

Julien sits under the shade of a tree reading his comic book about his favorite superhero, but distractors keep getting in the way. Julien’s frustration escalates. Suddenly an amazing figure appears to offer some good advice that young readers might follow to release themselves from the anger engendered by minor frustrations.

The rhyming picture book draws readers into the emotions felt by Julien in the tale. Even adults can relate to how easily common frustrations arise within us to create uncontrollable feelings. This story uses a superhero to teach a valuable lesson on how to control our emotions.

Recommended highly to parents and teachers who are searching for an effective approach to help young children reign in harmful emotions that lead to frustration.

I Feel Anxious: (Children’s picture book about anger management for kids 3-5)

Written by Aleks Harrison

Illustrated by Ferlina Gunawan

This book is a short, rhyming read for preschoolers who often have difficulty identifying and dealing with their emotions.

The protagonist is a little boy who is playing in the park with his father. When it comes time to leave, the boy is angry and resentful. In another situation, the boy is angry and frustrated when he cannot tie his shoes. Then he becomes impatient and angry when he must wait his turn in nursery school class.

The parent and teacher give the boy three techniques to calm down and control his feelings. They include breathing deeply, counting backwards, and relaxing with art materials or a book.

Its illustrations are huge and the colors enticing to keep the interest and focus of young readers. Recommended as a classroom read-aloud or bedtime story for toddlers and preschoolers.

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Millie the Cat Has Borderline Personality Disorder

Written by Jessie Shepherd

Some reviewers have criticized the book for being too simplistic. The author uses a cat named Millie as the protagonist with a borderline personality disorder. Using simple illustrations, Millie first explains the disorder by revealing the opposite emotions it brings on.

The second part of the book is my favorite part. Millie points out certain skills may be learned to control her emotions and then provides concrete examples of how persons suffering from this disorder have significant strengths and advantages as well as weaknesses and disadvantages.

I believe this book can be a valuable tool when used in conjunction with a skilled therapist or teacher. If read independently by a child, it will need adult explanation and elaboration to ensure there are no misunderstandings.

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