The big worry day

K. A. Reynolds

Book - 2022

"A little girl is convinced that her dog worries, just like her. With a whole day ahead of them, she'll need to figure out how to soothe them both. She prepares snacks, first aid, and even a sword in case there are any monsters. But when nothing works to ease their worries, she'll need to get creative"--Provided by publisher.

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jE/Reynolds
2 / 2 copies available
Location Call Number   Status
Children's Room jE/Reynolds Checked In
Children's Room jE/Reynolds Checked In
Subjects
Genres
Animal fiction
Psychological fiction
Picture books
Published
New York : Viking 2022.
Language
English
Main Author
K. A. Reynolds (author)
Other Authors
Chloe Dominique (illustrator)
Physical Description
1 volume (unpaged) : color illustrations ; 27 cm
Bibliography
Includes bibliographical references.
ISBN
9780593465639
Contents unavailable.
Review by Kirkus Book Review

A child expresses and mitigates their anxieties through their dog. A light-skinned child narrator informs readers, "I have a dog named Bea. She worries. Like me." Even though the only thing they have planned this weekend is going outside to play, the narrator states that Bea is worried about what might happen. While the text has the narrator heavily preparing in order to quell "Bea's" apprehension, the illustrations--depicting the protagonist's worried expressions and Bea's joyful, rambunctious body language--make it clear what's really going on. The narrator proposes bringing supplies (a sweater, a compass and a map, and more); when that does not allay their fears, the child and pup turn to self-regulating exercises including breathing exercises, yoga, and group therapy with stuffed toys. Finally, the gentle urging of the narrator's furry friend quiets their worries, providing a sense of safety to help face the day outdoors. Soft, muted illustrations pair well with the text to create a slow pace and tranquil atmosphere of mindfulness and comfort. The lack of adults in the narration gives space and opportunity for self-guided regulation mechanisms and acknowledges the power of companionship in helping to grapple with those fears. However, readers with similar issues will get the most out of this story if it's shared with a trusted adult. In an author's note, Reynolds discusses how she experienced anxiety from a very young age. (This book was reviewed digitally.) An exercise in self-awareness in the face of debilitating anxiety. (Picture book. 4-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.