Title: Little People Big Emotions
Author: Kylie Mort
Illustrator: Tiina Morton
Publisher: Serenity Press
Publication date: October 2022
Additional notable information: Parent and teacher notes are included at the back of the book in addition to a QR code to scan to access a study guide
Teaching notes including discussion questions as well as English, Drama and Health and Physical Education activities can also be found on the Just Write for Kids blog here
This book is part of a Books on Tour Campaign
Little People Big Emotions written by Kylie Mort, award winning author, teacher and performance coach and illustrated by Tiina Morton is an empowering book for young readers and the adults in their lives about some of the different emotions they may experience, written in a way that children can visualise and therefore not only identify with, but also relate to. This connection helps children understand that their big emotions are experienced by others too and reassures them that these big feelings are not only normal, but ok. Being able to understand and relate to the emotions gives children the language to communicate their feelings. This book provides strategies for children to help regulate and navigate their feelings. As the end of the year looms, many people are finishing school for the year and with this there may be a change of routine, others may be turning their minds to the new year, a time of more change and emotions can be tested, heightened and triggered. This book gives young children, parents and educators strategies and tools to support and empower young readers. It is an excellent gateway to important and vital conversations about building capacity for emotional intelligence.
The gentle, soothing lyrical text explores different feelings and compares them to animals and experiences children are familiar with – a beautiful butterfly that flits and flutters, a playful puppy, a busy blender and a mean monster (who is illustrated in a non-threatening and endearing monster kind of way). While the emotions escalate, the bright, gentle and playful illustrations ensure the tone of the story remains affirming and calm. The soft colour palette adds to the soothing, reassuring and comforting nature of the book.
At the back of the book Kylie has included Parent and Teacher Notes where she discusses the themes explored and includes twenty discussion questions. There is also a QR code to scan to access a study guide.
This book is an invaluable resource to educate and empower young people to understand their emotions and in doing so, with the support of adults, use tools and strategies to navigate them.
Please follow the Just Write for Kids blog and the links listed below and Books on Tour PR & Marketing schedule for more information and reviews about this book.
