Welcome to my latest piece which is part of a blog tour with the brilliant publisher, Andersen Press.
You may recall me sharing a review of the book, The Problem with Problems well since then author Rachel Rooney and illustrator Zehra Hickes have created a sequel, The Worrying Worries which is now published in the U.K.
The Worrying Worries is an engaging, colourful, sensitively written read. This is a rhythmic read that explores how worries can become all consuming but it doesn’t need to be forever.
The protagonist is a young, mixed race, brown skin boy with curly hair. The boy is seen with his mum and dad on separate occasions so it could be that they all live together, or possibly not. One day he catches a worry in a net and decides to keep it as a pet. The pet accompanies the boy everywhere he goes and as the hours go by the size of the pet increases, even takes over his bed. The pet however, needs to go but how will it?
The pet, a worry is constantly hungry, feeding off negativity, upset, and sad thoughts. In turn it creates more sadness for the boy, putting him off his food and he even dreams about his worry too. Though sadness and worry can sometimes be brushed aside, the book gives a clear insight into how worry can truly affect many aspects of your life and in someone so young.
Picture books that my family and I have previously shared, exploring this topic, have always emphasised the importance of talking about your feelings. This book does the same however, interestingly the person who helps the young boy is a worry expect rather then a family member. She is absolutely brilliant and suggests practical ways in how the boy can feel more himself again. Things like yoga and breathing techniques. Such a wonderful way for readers to see how they too can banish a worry.
This is a reassuring read that may well encourage young readers to share their feelings.
Zehra Hicks illustrations which include an inclusive community, complete this book wonderfully. From the colourful dotty endpapers to the many details throughout each double page. For example, seeing dad each time with a full laundry basket or the various children who too have worry monsters but all come together for the final double page spread implying that their anxiety is not as bad as first seen or that they now have the confidence to play with other children. I adore the supportive relationship you see between the boy and the worry expert.
This book would be a welcome addition to all bookshelves and during this difficult time we are currently living in, the book highlights the importance of discussing your feelings and mindfulness.
The blog tour is continuing for the next few days. Do pop over to see what fellow bloggers and bookstagrammers thought of the book.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of review and participation in the blog tour. All words and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.