Books about emotions

I Am the Swarm is a powerful and evocative Young Adult novel in verse that explores the weight of legacy and the intensity of female emotion. Nell Strand comes from a long line of magical women, but she views their gifts as a curse that fractures her family. When her own magic finally arrives, it manifests as a swarm of insects—starting with delicate ladybugs but quickly escalating into beetles, moths, and stinging wasps that mirror her suppressed rage. This lyrical story is perfect for readers who enjoy magical realism and stories that tackle complex family dynamics with raw honesty.

Ideal for fans of Jandy Nelson and Laurie Halse Anderson, this book is a great choice for teens looking for a deeply emotional and atmospheric read. Through the unique format of verse, Hayley Chewins captures the visceral experience of growing up and finding one's voice amidst societal and familial expectations. It is a captivating pick for those interested in feminist themes, the power of creativity, and the journey toward self-acceptance.

Highlights:

• A unique and propulsive narrative told entirely in verse.
• A compelling exploration of feminist rage and emotional expression.
• Intricate magical realism where emotions manifest as physical swarms.
• Deeply relatable themes of family legacy and the struggle for identity.

Karen's Worst Day is a delightful graphic novel adaptation of Ann M. Martin's classic series, brought to life with vibrant illustrations by Katy Farina. In this installment, young Karen Brewer is having one of those days where nothing seems to go right. From missing her favorite jeans to finding no prize in her cereal box, Karen's frustrations mount until she finds herself in trouble. This relatable story captures the big emotions of childhood with humor and heart, making it a perfect choice for children who are learning how to navigate bad days and difficult feelings.

Ideal for readers interested in realistic stories about family and school life, this book is a great choice for fans of the Baby-sitters Club universe. The graphic novel format is particularly engaging for reluctant readers or those transitioning from picture books to longer stories. Parents will appreciate the gentle lessons on patience and resilience, while kids will see themselves in Karen's spirited personality. Whether she is dealing with a grumpy cat or a time-out, Karen's journey is one that every child can understand.

Highlights:

• Relatable story about managing frustration and navigating a series of mishaps.
• Vibrant, expressive artwork that helps young readers follow the plot and identify emotions.
• Perfect for fans of the Baby-sitters Little Sister and The Baby-sitters Club series.
• Great for building emotional intelligence and discussing feelings with parents or teachers.

Dive into the underwater world of Narwhal and Jelly in the ninth installment of this beloved graphic novel series! Narwhal's Sweet Tooth is a delightful collection of four stories that explore the importance of dental hygiene and the reality of having a 'bad day.' When Narwhal's love for sugary treats leads to a funny-feeling tusk, his no-nonsense friend Jelly is there to help. With the expert advice of Shark—who knows a thing or two about teeth—Narwhal learns how to take care of his pearly whites. This book is perfect for children who love funny animal adventures and parents looking for engaging ways to discuss health and emotions with their little ones.

Beyond the dental drama, the story touches on emotional intelligence as Jelly and Crab help Narwhal understand that it is okay to frown and feel down sometimes. This relatable message makes it an ideal choice for readers interested in social-emotional learning. With Ben Clanton's signature humor and charming illustrations, this graphic novel is a great choice for early readers who are transitioning to independent reading but still enjoy visual storytelling. Fans of the series will love seeing their favorite characters navigate new challenges with kindness and a lot of heart.

Highlights:

• Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence in young children.
• Promotes positive habits like dental hygiene and emotional honesty.
• Features a hilarious cast of underwater characters that kids will adore.
• Perfect for fans of the Narwhal and Jelly series and humorous animal stories.