A Feel Better Book for Little Tempers

PreS-Gr 1—In this informational picture book, Brochmann and Bowen use rhyme and helpful vocabulary to identify emotions and bodily sensations associated with anger. The focus of the narrative is on pedagogy, rather than story. It differentiates between appropriate and inappropriate expressions of anger and offers children and caregivers strategies for dealing with uncomfortable feelings in productive ways. As an alternative to biting or hitting, the authors suggest playing sports, dancing, and other mindfulness strategies, including consciously tensing and releasing muscles and deep breathing. The text works well to draw a connection between bodily sensations and emotional regulation in a way that's accessible for young audiences. The illustrations depict characters with various skin tones and the expressiveness of their faces complement the presentation a great deal by providing additional ways of identifying different emotions. The back matter includes information for adults on managing anger and temper tantrums.