by Anne Marie Guanci and Caroline Attia
Paperback, 28 pages
Published by New Horizon Press
January 2007
ISBN 9780882822754
Book Source: bought

Product description from Amazon– David could not stop thinking about that shot he missed at the end of the big game.  He was worried that his teammates would be angry with him.  He was worried that his parents would not be proud of him.  He was also worried about an upcoming math test.  In fact, he was worried a lot.  David’s anxiety was growing and growing.

Anne Marie Guanci’s charming story teaches children how to deal with anxiety.  It shows how to take very important step in a child’s healthy, emotional growth.  Conquering fears both big and small, and not avoiding them, is the lesson imparted in this delightfully illustrated book.  Focusing on finding answers for a growing problem, it has helpful tips for both parents and children.

Review:   David is a little boy who worries too much.  He’s worried about the basketball game he thinks he’s responsible for his team losing. He’s worried he’ll make them lose the championship game.  He’s worried about the math test his class has to take. He’s worried about what his friends think of him.  He worries, worries, worries until he worries himself sick, literally.  He worries himself a Worry Beast and with each new worry, the Worry Beast grows. A school nurse, a friendly school doctor, and mom and dad help him learn how to deal with his worries and get rid of the Worry Beast.

Delightful illustrations to help tell the story make it easier to help any child understand the concept of the story.

I recommend this book to ages 3 and up.

About the Author: Anne Marie Guanci has a Master’s Degree in Psychiatric Nursing from Boston College. She has over 15 years experience working with children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of emotional and behavioral disorders. She resides in Reading, MA with her three children.

About the Illustrator: Caroline Attia is a freelance illustrator from France who spent a year as an exchange student at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.