Best books about feelings
As a psychologist, I spend a lot of time talking about feelings, exploring their multiple dimensions, understanding their importance, and ultimately working through them. There are so many talented writers and illustrators out there, which ultimately means that there are too many books available about feelings. And many of them are very good!
Here is a list of my 6 absolute favourites, the books that I use continuously, and have even gifted away. If you are looking for books for your children, this is a place you can start!
Book of Mixed Emotions by Brittany Candau
This book collection has worked wonders with many children! This box set includes a book exploring each of Riley’s feelings, helping children understand that each one is not as simple as we sometimes think. Maybe more so than the film – Inside Out – this book collection is a classic that I find myself returning to again and again.
The Colour Monster by Anna Llenas
We too often focus on teaching little ones about numbers, letters, colours, shapes … that we forget teaching them about feelings. The Colour Monster is a great way to start the conversation! With fun illustrations, while focusing on colour patterns, the book encourages children to explore the variety of feelings we can have at once, while also highlighting the importance of sorting through them instead of having them co-exist in chaos.
In My Heart by Janan Cain
An old book, but a classic that each home would benefit from owning! With fun, coloured illustrations, and short poems about each of the feelings, children (and adults) enjoy reading through it while perhaps grinning and how they are described! Feelings range from silly, scared, shy, bored, anger, jealous, thankful, frustrated as well as the “simpler” happy, sad, and angry! In a few words, In My Heart refers to a wide range of emotions, while quickly explaining how each one feels, and why we may have it!
Listening To My Body by Gabi Garcia
An engaging and super interactive book, Listening To My Body effectively explains how each emotion is portrayed through our body. Readers are invited to carry out the activities alongside reading the book, encouraging them to pay attention to their bodies.
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
A slightly different book than the rest, however very powerful! The book follows a pair of twins who feel scared in bed, and slowly calm and realise that they are connected to their loved ones, from home, school, other countries, space, and even heaven! The Invisible Strings leaves readers with a sense of calm and connectedness.
Worry Says What by Allison Edwards
A crowd favourite! I know I’m repeating myself, but especially this book I have used with so many children, specifically those struggling with feelings of worry. Worry Says What gives worry a physical form which seems to help children understand it much better! The book teaches children how common worry is, but how we can all cope with it effectively.
I hope this list proves helpful! Feel free to comment below on whether you have read these with your children and how they responded!
More recommendations coming!