MELODY THE UNICORN'S BIG WORRY

Maheshwari’s picture book about a nervous unicorn addresses the anxiety that many kids experience before starting something new.

Young Melody is trying on her new tutu in preparation for starting ballet class the next day. But after seeing a poster showing an older, more proficient dancer, the anxious youngster considers not attending. Melody’s mom suggests that she explain what exactly is worrying her. Melody does so, and her mom assuages her fears. Her mother also suggests a helpful mindfulness game in which the child imagines a place where she feels safe and happy. The parent also gives Melody a special box, explaining that the youngster can write down whatever makes her nervous on a piece of paper and leave it inside. The next morning at class, Melody feels a wave of worry when she questions her own skills. The teacher reassures her and the entire class that anxiety is natural. Overall, Maheshwari does an excellent job of describing the physical effects of anxiety: “Suddenly, her heart began racing, her mouth grew dry, and she felt dizzy.” Such passages provide helpful clues for readers to decode the signals of their own bodies. Alshalabi’s full-color cartoon illustrations skillfully convey character movement and employ detailed, fully illustrated backgrounds. Additional resources at the back of the book, including positive affirmations, are also helpful.

A useful and well-illustrated story about anxiety.