Discovering Anger in “Sometimes When I’m Mad” by Deborah Serani
Sometimes, a book finds you at just the right moment. “Sometimes When I’m Mad,” penned by the insightful Dr. Deborah Serani and beautifully illustrated by Kyra Teis, captured my attention as I reflected on the emotional landscape children navigate. As someone who cherishes the power of storytelling to foster understanding among the younger generation, I was excited to dive into this meaningful sequel to “Sometimes When I’m Sad.”
At its core, “Sometimes When I’m Mad” is a gentle guide for children to navigate the often daunting emotion of anger. Through simple yet impactful language, Serani distills complex feelings into digestible insights. The narrative beautifully communicates how anger can manifest—whether it’s a stomachache, explosive outbursts, or feelings of confusion. This relatable approach not only validates children’s feelings but also equips them with practical anger management techniques. For instance, the idea that asking for a hug can work wonders when feeling overwhelmed resonated deeply with me. It’s such a straightforward concept, yet one that can have transformative effects for a child struggling with big feelings.
The book is clearly designed with care, and this is amplified by Teis’s soft, warm illustrations. The evocative imagery complements the text perfectly, allowing children to visualize their emotions in a safe space. Moments of a child stomping angrily or seeking comfort from a parent are illustrated with subtlety, grounding the narrative in real-life scenarios.
What struck a chord with me was the special section aimed at adults, offering further insights into managing a child’s anger. This also serves as a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers, establishing a bridge between the child’s emotional experience and adult understanding. I found Dr. Serani’s expertise in psychology shone through the book, particularly in her emphasis on communication and support. The reminders that these feelings are normal—and that it’s okay to seek help—are critical messages for both children and the adults guiding them.
With accolades such as the ★★★★★ Literary Excellence award from the PenCraft Book Awards and a fervent endorsement from the beloved singer Raffi, the book’s impact is clear. Readers’ Favorite lauds it as a “must-read,” underscoring how imperative it is for children to learn about their emotions in healthy, constructive ways.
In conclusion, “Sometimes When I’m Mad” isn’t just a book; it’s a valuable tool for nurturing emotional intelligence in children. I think this book would be wonderful for parents looking to foster open discussions about feelings with their young ones, as well as for educators aiming to create a compassionate classroom environment. Personally, reading this book as an adult reminded me of the purity and complexity of childhood emotions, highlighting the importance of guidance and understanding.
If you have a little one in your life—or if you simply seek a touching exploration of anger and emotional growth—this book is a delightful addition to any reading list. Sometimes, anger is just as essential to understand and address as joy, and Deborah Serani’s delicate handling of this subject makes “Sometimes When I’m Mad” a compelling read for all ages.