When I Feel Sad

January 1, 2003
PreS-Gr 2-An excellent note to parents and teachers precedes this story, in which a guinea pig lists situations that cause her to feel sad. "I feel sad when someone won't let me play, /or when I really want to tell about something and nobody listens." Children will relate to her feelings and the accompanying illustrations will draw them in to the story. Artwork done with soft lines and muted colors reflects the mood and conveys the emotions of this forlorn little creature. All of the characters, clad in patterned clothing, are charmingly rendered. Readers are reassured that "everyone feels sad sometimes," that there are ways to feel better, and that sadness eventually goes away. This is a well-constructed and useful resource for family and classroom sharing.-Melinda Piehler, North Tonawanda Public Library, NY

Copyright 2003 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.