CALLING ALL BOOK LOVERSBrowse through Emily's carefully selected collection of resources that empower families to connect, build on their coping tools and nurture mental wellness.
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NAMING FEELINGS
The Way I Feel
by Janan Cain Helps children understand and express their emotions through colourful illustrations and simple language.
Ages 3-8 |
On Monday When It Rained
by Cherryl Kachenmeister Follows a child's changing emotions throughout the week, helping kids understand and express their feelings.
Ages 4-8 |
In My Heart
by Jo Witek Explores a range of emotions, helping children identify and understand their feelings with vibrant illustrations.
Ages 3-8 |
Bedtime Stories For Hard Days
by Scott Stuart A thoughtful, loving collection of very short rhyming stories to help children unwind after a day of heightened emotions.
Ages 2+ |
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MINDFUL BREATHING & BEING
My Magic Breath
by Nick Ortner and Alison Taylor Teaches kids simple breathing techniques to help them relax and manage big emotions, encouraging mindfulness in a fun, engaging way.
Ages 4-8 |
Breathe Like A Bear
by Kira Willey Teaches kids calming breathing techniques through fun, simple exercises to help them relax and focus.
Ages 4-8 
Slow Down: 50 Mindful Moments in Nature
by Rachel Williams A beautiful coffee table book that invites readers of all ages to pause and notice 50 everyday moments in nature. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down and appreciate the small wonders happening all around us.
Ages 3+ |
Breathe Up, Wonder Pup
by Angela Murphy A young pup learns calming techniques to manage emotions like anxiety and fear. The story teaches kids how to use deep breathing and mindfulness to feel more relaxed and in control.
Ages 6-11 |
ANXIETY & WORRIES
Wilma Jean The Worry Machine
by Julia Cook Shows how Wilma Jean handles her anxiety with strategies to calm her worries.
Ages 7-10 |
Tummy Troubles
by Jaime Roche Helps children understand how anxiety can cause physical symptoms, like stomachaches, and how to cope.
Ages 4-9 |
The Zookeeper's Day Off
by Sophie Fobert Introduces children to the concept of the fight-or-flight response in a fun and engaging way. Through the zookeeper's day off, the animals experience stress and use the fight-or-flight reaction, helping kids understand how their bodies respond to fear and danger.
Ages 5-10 |
A Workbook for Kids: What To Do When You Worry Too Much
by Dawn Huebner, PhD Offers kids practical strategies and activities to help manage anxiety and reduce excessive worry.
Ages 6-12 |
A Workbook for Kids: What To Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck
by Dawn Huebner, PhD Helps kids manage obsessive thoughts and worries with practical strategies to "unstick" their minds and regain control.
Ages 6-12 |
Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD: A Program for Parents
by Eli R. Lebowitz, PhD Provides parents with effective tools and strategies to help children overcome anxiety and OCD using a proven therapeutic approach.
For Parents |
Guts
by Raina Telgemeier A graphic novel about a young girl coping with anxiety and stomach issues, offering a relatable look at growing up.
Ages 8-12 |
The Compulsion Cloud
by Kira Lynne Helps kids understand and manage OCD through a story about a cloud representing compulsions.
Ages 5-9 
Poppy and her Worry Monster
By Janet Ritchie Poppy, a 7-year-old who worries so much that she stops doing things she loves, learns to treat her worry as a friend rather than a monster—discovering Rosie and others along the way—and this book helps children accept their worries instead of trying to get rid of them.
Ages 5-9
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Hey Warrior
by Karen Young Helps kids understand anxiety by describing it as a "warrior" in their brain. It offers simple strategies to manage fear and build confidence.
Ages 5-12 |
SEPERATION ANXIETY
The Invisible String Backpack
by Patrice Karst A comforting story that teaches children about the unbreakable connections of love, even when apart from loved ones. Through the concept of an invisible string, the book reassures children that love is always with them, offering comfort during times of separation.
Ages 4-8 |
What to Do When You Feel Too Shy: A Kid's Guide to Overcome Social Anxiety
by Claire A.B. Freeland, PhD, and Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD. A practical guide for children struggling with social anxiety. The book offers helpful strategies, tips, and activities to build confidence, manage shyness, and navigate social situations with ease.
Ages 6-12 |
What To Do When You Don't Want To Be Apart: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Separation Anxiety
by Kristen Lavallee, PhD, and Silvia Schneider A compassionate guide that helps children understand and manage separation anxiety. Through relatable strategies and comforting advice, the book empowers kids to cope with feelings of distress when apart from loved ones.
Ages 6-12 |
INTRODUCTION TO THERAPY
When a Donut Goes To Therapy
by Erin Winters Follows a donut as it explores its emotions and learns about self-care through therapy. This fun story helps children understand the importance of talking about their feelings and finding ways to heal.
Ages 4+ |
Welcome to Therapy: A Mindful Introduction to Counseling for Kids
by Andrea Dorn Offers a gentle and accessible introduction to counseling for children. Through simple language and engaging illustrations, the book helps kids understand what therapy is, how it works, and how it can help them navigate their emotions.
Ages 4+ |
The Stress Reduction Workbook for Teens: Mindfulness Skills to Help You Deal with Stress
by Gina M. Biegel Offers practical mindfulness techniques to help teens manage and reduce stress. This interactive guide provides effective tools for building resilience and finding calm in the face of everyday challenges.
Ages 13+ |
GRIEF & LOSS
The Invisible String
by Patrice Karst A heartwarming story that reassures children that love connects them to their loved ones, even when they’re apart. Through the concept of an invisible string, the book offers comfort and reminds kids that they are never truly alone.
Ages 3-11 |
The Sad Dragon: A Dragon Book About Grief and Loss
by Steve Herman A gentle story that helps children understand and cope with grief. Through the journey of a sad dragon, the book offers comfort and teaches kids that it’s okay to feel sad and that healing takes time.
Ages 4-8 |
The Healing Your Grieving Heart Journal for Teens
by Alan D. Wolfelt PhD Offers a supportive space for teens to express and process their grief. With guided prompts, this journal helps young people navigate their emotions, find healing, and honor their feelings after a loss.
Ages 12+ |
Grief Is An Elephant
by Tamara Ellis Smith & Nancy Whitesides A compassionate story that helps children understand and cope with grief. Through the metaphor of an elephant, the book illustrates the heavy feelings of loss and reassures kids that it's okay to feel sad and seek support.
Ages 3-6 
When Someone Dies: A Children's Mindful How-To Guide on Grief and Loss
by Andrea Dorn Helps children understand and cope with loss in a gentle, age-appropriate way. Combining mindfulness, reflection, and practical guidance, it supports kids and the adults who care for them through the grieving process.
Ages 4-10 |
When A Friend Dies: A Book For Teens About Grieving & Healing
by Marilyn E. Gootman Provides sensitive guidance for teens coping with the loss of a close friend. The book offers comfort, understanding, and practical advice for navigating grief and finding healing during a difficult time.
Ages 11+ 
The Invisible Leash: The Loss of a Pet
by Patrice Karst A heartfelt story that helps children cope with the loss of a beloved pet. Through the comforting metaphor of an invisible leash, the book reassures kids that the love they shared with their pet will always remain, even after they’re gone.
Ages 4-9 |
Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children
by Bryan Mellonie A gentle, reassuring book that helps children understand the natural process of life and death. Through simple, thoughtful language and illustrations, it provides a comforting way to explain the concept of death and its place in the cycle of life.
Ages 5-9 
In Grandpaw's Pawprints: A Story of Loss, Life & Love
by Lauren Mosback A gentle story about love, loss, and healing. Through Bethany the Bear’s journey of grief, it helps children understand that the love of those we’ve lost stays with us always, offering comfort and hope.
Ages 4-12 |
GENDER, LOVE & PRIDE
They She He Me: Free to Be!
by Maya & Matthew An empowering and inclusive book that explores gender identity in a fun and accessible way. Through colourful illustrations and simple language, it encourages children to embrace their own unique identities and express themselves freely.
Ages 2-12 |
Jacob's New Dress
by Sarah and Ian Hoffman A thoughtful story about a young boy named Jacob who loves wearing dresses but faces challenges when others don’t understand his choice. The book encourages self-expression and acceptance, showing that it's okay to be yourself, no matter what others expect.
Ages 4-8 |
MELISSA: Previously Published As GEORGE
by Alex Gino Follows a transgender girl named Melissa as she navigates her desire to play Charlotte in her school play. The story highlights her journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and finding the courage to be true to herself.
Ages 8-12 |
Heather Has Two Mommies
By Leslea Newman Showcasing same-sex parents, as well as other families, this lovely read has a great message with fun illustrations.
Ages 3-7
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Call Me Max
By Lukoff This read is about Max's journey as he makes new friends and reveals his feelings about his identity to his teacher and parents. Written with warmth and sensitivity by trans writer Kyle Lukoff, a sweet and age-appropriate introduction to what it means to be transgender.
Ages 4-10 |
This Day in June
By Gayle Pitman An excellent tool for teaching respect, acceptance, and understanding of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. This book is a whimsical, validating, and exuberant reflection of the LGBTQ+ community, welcoming readers to experience a pride celebration and share in a day when we are all united.
Ages 5-10 |
The Gender Wheel: a story about bodies and gender for everybody
by Maya Christina Gonzalez
by Maya Christina Gonzalez
An inclusive picture book that celebrates the diversity of bodies and genders through nature and storytelling.
Ages 4-8
Ages 4-8
NEURODIVERGENCE (AUTISM, ADHD & MORE)
He's Not Naughty: A Children's Guide to Autism by Deborah Brownson
Explains autism in a simple, compassionate way. It helps children understand different behaviours and promotes empathy and acceptance.
Ages 6-11 |
Dragon and His Friend: A Dragon Book About Autism
by Steve Herman Tells the story of a dragon learning to understand his unique qualities and how they relate to autism. It encourages acceptance and understanding, helping children appreciate differences in themselves and others.
Ages 4-8 |
My Day is Ruined! A Story for Teaching Flexible Thinking
by Bryan Smith Follows a child who learns to handle unexpected challenges with a more flexible mindset. The book encourages kids to adapt to changes and see problems as opportunities to grow.
Ages 5-11 |
My Brain Needs Glasses: ADHD Explained to Kids
by Annick Vincent A child-friendly book that helps young readers understand ADHD by comparing the brain to a pair of glasses that help focus. It explains the challenges and strengths of ADHD in an engaging, relatable way for kids.
Ages 6+ |
Listen Up Wonder Pup: Self-Regulation Series
by Angela Murphy Follows a young dog, Wonder Pup, as he learns important lessons about managing emotions and self-regulation. The book teaches kids how to recognize their feelings and make calm, thoughtful choices in challenging situations.
Ages 6-11 |
What Were You Thinking? A Story About Learning to Control Your Impulses
by Bryan Smith Follows a young boy as he learns the importance of thinking before acting. Through relatable scenarios, the book helps children understand how to manage impulsive behaviors and make better choices.
Ages 6-10 |
My Brain is a Race Car: A Children's Guide to Neuro-Divergent Brain
by Nell Harris Helps children understand neurodivergence by comparing the brain to a race car, highlighting its unique strengths and challenges. The book explains how different brains work and encourages kids to embrace their individuality.
Ages 4-10 |
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Dragon and His Friend: A Dragon Book About Autism. A Cute Children Story to Explain the Basics of Autism at a Child’s Level
by Steve Herman |
ADHD: Rapped Up!
By Mr. G (aka Jamie Gilbert) |
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When a dragon meets a new friend with autism, he learns about differences, kindness, and understanding. This heartwarming story helps children appreciate that everyone experiences the world in their own unique way.
Ages 4-8 |
Join TikTok sensation Mr G on a fun, interactive journey into the ADHD brain – packed with raps, tips, movement breaks, and cool illustrations to help kids thrive!
Ages 7-11 |
ANGER: TAMING THE FIRE
What To Do When Temper Flares: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Problems with Anger
by Dawn Huebner, PhD Helps kids manage anger with practical strategies and activities. It teaches healthier ways to respond when feeling frustrated.
Ages 6-12 |
My Mouth is a Volcano
by Julia Cook Helps children understand the importance of listening and waiting their turn to speak. It uses a fun, relatable story to teach kids about impulse control and patience.
Ages 4-8 
The Anger Volcano: A Book About Anger For Kids
by Amanda Greenslade Helps children understand and manage their anger. It uses the metaphor of a volcano to show how emotions build up and how to "cool down" before they erupt.
Ages 4-10 |
Train Your Angry Dragon
by Steve Herman Teaches kids how to manage their anger through simple, fun techniques. The book uses a dragon to help children understand how to calm down and control their emotions.
Ages 4-10 |
UNHELPFUL & NEGATIVE THINKING
What to Do When You Grumble Too Much: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Negativity
by Dawn Huebner Helps kids recognize and overcome negative thinking. It provides practical strategies for turning grumbling into positive, constructive thoughts.
Ages 6-12 
Fear Not!: How to Face Your Fear and Anxiety Head-On
by Christina Furnival Empowers children to face fear and anxiety with courage and confidence. Through a relatable rhyming story and a simple three-step strategy, it teaches kids how to manage worries and build lasting emotional resilience.
Ages 4-10 |
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes
by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein Tells the story of a girl who strives for perfection until she learns that making mistakes is part of life. The book encourages children to embrace mistakes and grow from them.
Ages 4-8 |
Catching Thoughts
by Bonnie Clark Helps children understand and manage their thoughts, particularly when they feel worried or anxious. The book teaches kids how to "catch" negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones.
Ages 4-8 |
SELF-ESTEEM & CONFIDENCE
I Like Myself
by Karen Beaumont A fun book that encourages kids to embrace their uniqueness and feel confident in who they are. It celebrates self-love and teaches the importance of accepting oneself.
Ages 0-3 
The Self-Confidence Workbook for Teens
by Ashley Vigil-Otero Offers practical mindfulness skills to help teens overcome social anxiety, build assertiveness, and develop self-belief. It provides exercises and strategies to boost confidence in everyday situations.
Ages 13+ 
Bodies Are Cool
by Tyler Feder This joyful picture book celebrates all kinds of bodies—different shapes, skin tones, and hair types—with warmth and inclusivity. Through vibrant illustrations and a cheerful refrain, it encourages body confidence and self-love in young readers.
Ages 3-7 
Morgan and the I CAN'T MONSTER: My Mindset Matters
by Teresa Porath Teaches children the power of a growth mindset through Morgan’s inspiring journey of perseverance. This uplifting story helps kids understand that with effort, self-belief, and the “power of yet,” they can overcome challenges and achieve great things.
Ages 5-9 |
Beautiful: A Girl's Trip Through the Looking Glass
by Marie D'Abreo Follows a young girl as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning to appreciate her inner beauty. The book encourages confidence, self-acceptance, and understanding of one’s unique qualities.
Ages 8-12 
I Am Enough
by Grace Byers An empowering book that encourages children to embrace their uniqueness and value themselves. It promotes self-love, confidence, and acceptance in a beautifully illustrated, poetic way.
Ages 4-8 
Why Do You Love Me?
Dr. Laura Schlessinger A tender story about a mother’s unconditional love, Why Do You Love Me? helps children understand that love is both a feeling and a promise. A perfect read-together book for sparking heartfelt conversations between parents and kids.
Ages 4-8 
Every Body: A First Conversation About Bodies
by Megan Madison Designed for toddlers and preschoolers, it helps families start early, empowering conversations about body diversity, self-acceptance, and fairness in an age-appropriate way.
Ages 2-5 |
Share Your Smile: Raina's Guide to Telling Your Own Story
by Raina Telgemeier A fun, interactive guide that encourages kids to embrace their smile and spread positivity. Through relatable tips and stories, it helps children build confidence and connect with others through kindness.
Ages 7+ 
Strong, Smart, Kind & Brave
by Andrew Swinson An imperfect fairy tale, building resilience and positive self talk, and encouraging calm and connected families. This book is for everyone, especially kids with ADHD, autism, anxiety and other neurodiversities who teach us all to look at the world from different perspectives.
Ages 4-8 
The Not-So-Friendly Friend: How to Set Boundaries for Healthy Friendships
by Christina Furnival Teaches children how to handle unkind peers with confidence and kindness. Through a relatable rhyming story, it helps kids learn to set boundaries, stand up for themselves, and build healthy friendships.
Ages 4-7 
Sabina's Celiac Story
by Neva Ryan Follows a young girl’s journey to understanding her celiac disease and learning how to stay healthy with a gluten-free diet. Told in rhyme, it helps children make sense of health challenges and celebrates taking care of their bodies.
Ages 3-10 |
ALL KINDS OF FAMILIES (SEPARATION & DIVORCE)
Two Homes
By Claire Masurel This gently reassuring read focuses on what is gained rather than what is lost when parents divorce. Supporting children - and parents - in embracing even the most difficult of changes with an open and optimistic heart.
Ages 3-7 |
Two Homes Filled with Love
By Steve Herman This book is an excellent tool to help children cope with parental separation, breakup or divorce, and to teach them that whether living in one home or two, they're always loved and supported.
Ages 4-10 
All Kinds of Families
By Suzanne Lang A silly and positive introduction to open-mindedness and all kinds of family love. Lots of nontraditional family structures are celebrated, have fun finding your own family represented in this one!
Ages 0-5 |
Between Two Homes: A Journal for Navigating Your Parents Divorce
By N.S Stuckey A guided journal designed to help teens navigate the emotional challenges of divorce through thoughtful prompts, creative exercises, and coping tools. It offers a safe, supportive space to process feelings, build resilience, and find hope during a time of change.
Ages 10-17 |
If you are looking to support Canadian book stores, consider Indigo and Book Outlet for your reads.
**Of note, this page includes affiliate links for books I use and love.
If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. **
**Of note, this page includes affiliate links for books I use and love.
If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. **
