The Ghost Who Was Afraid of Everything

K-Gr 3–Finn is a ghost who overcomes his anxiety through perseverance and finds the courage to participate in the best day of the year: Halloween. When Finn is afraid, “his stomach swoops, his hands sweat, and he can’t move,” leaving him in a paralyzing panic. “He doesn’t know why he twists in knots about these things.” He compares himself to his fearless siblings, feeling left out and lonely as they engage in typical ghostly activities. Despite his struggles, Finn’s family accepts him for who he is, but sometimes he gets overlooked. Determined to confront his fears and do things on his own, Finn sets out to face his fears with incremental steps. While the book begins with black, white, and orange illustrations in simple line drawings, color slowly returns to the pages, symbolizing Finn’s newfound bravery and expanded worldview as he works towards overcoming his fears. This text masterfully captures the visceral experience of fear and anxiety, making it relatable for young readers grappling with similar emotions. It serves as a valuable tool for social-emotional learning, highlighting the physical and emotional manifestations of fear while emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-acceptance.