The Don’t Worry Book

PreS-Gr 1–Parr’s fans will immediately recognize his signature bold, colorful, thickly lined illustrations and straightforward text. The topic of his newest work is an emotion that can be confusing and difficult for young children to process—worry. Beginning with an explanation of this troubling feeling, the book features children and dogs experiencing 15 relatable scenarios that might trigger feelings of anxiety. A child going to the doctor’s office, a pup hiding behind the couch while watching something worry-inducing on the television, and even a nod to more contemporary challenges as a child gets worried from looking at screens too frequently are just some of the examples that reassure little ones that everyone experiences worry sometimes. This is followed by 10 strategies for dealing with worry, from the silly (wear underwear on your head) to the empowering (think about the things that make you strong) to the practical (take deep breaths). The book ends with a letter from the author encouraging children to speak to a loving adult if they are struggling with worry. Overall, the book is an excellent discussion starter for preschool and early elementary audiences. It shows young children that worry is a normal feeling and that there are many appropriate outlets for dealing with it in a healthy way.