When I Feel Scared

July 1, 2002
PreS-Gr 1-A cuddly bear cub is featured in these two purposeful stories. The lesson in When I Care is that children should treat others as they wish to be treated. The book includes some suggestions for promoting empathy. Scared describes situations in which children feel frightened and how comforting by another helps. It also mentions that being scared can protect them against injury-for example, being afraid of a strange growling dog or climbing too high. Each book begins with a note to adults about how to help children with their feelings. Colorful illustrations of the cub and his animal friends in many familiar situations at home and at school are placed on abundant white space, giving an open, uncluttered look to the pages. There are many stronger, more imaginative stories about these subjects, such as Dr. Seuss's Horton Hears a Who (Random, 1954) and Mercer Mayer's There's a Nightmare in My Closet (Turtleback, 1968). However, on some occasions teachers and caregivers might welcome the guidance given in this series.-Martha Gordon, formerly at South Salem Library, NY

Copyright 2002 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2002
Ages 2-5. This well-conceived volume by the writer of " When I Feel Angry" (2000) deals sensitively with children's fears. In the page-long author's note, Spelman makes a strong case for adults' acknowledging childhood fears rather than denying or downplaying them. In the story, a little bear talks about what makes him scared, what fear feels like, how the fear sometimes keeps him safe, and how he can deal with unnecessary fears. The short, well-reasoned narrative, child-centered point of view, and practical suggestions make this a good choice for preschoolers. Parkinson's expressive line-and-watercolor illustrations of the little bear and his family will strongly appeal to young children. A fine addition to The Way I Feel series.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2002, American Library Association.)