Breathing Makes It Better
A Book for Sad Days, Mad Days, Glad Days, and All the Feelings In-Between
Christopher Willard; Wendy O'Leary
BOOK REVIEW

Breathing Makes It Better is not merely a book; it's a profound guide to navigating the whirlwind of emotions that life throws at us. 🌪 With its delicate illustrations and heartfelt prose, Christopher Willard and Wendy O'Leary have crafted a beacon of hope for children and adults alike. Are you struggling to make sense of sadness, anger, or even happiness? This book promises to be your emotional compass.
As you flip through the pages, each vignette reveals the truth that we all face: feelings can be overwhelming. The authors deftly capture the essence of human emotion, from the stormy days filled with anger to the serene moments of joy. Their words resonate like a soothing balm, gently reminding readers that it's okay to feel sad, mad, or glad. This philosophical approach demystifies feelings, transforming them into relatable experiences that anyone can understand. Remember those days when it felt like the world was crashing down? This book addresses those instances head-on, offering tangible methods to breathe through the chaos.
What if I told you that Willard and O'Leary's work inspires readers to embrace their emotions rather than shy away from them? Each page serves as a gentle nudge, encouraging a contemplative examination of emotional landscapes. It speaks to the child within us, whispering, "You are not alone." This connection is compelling-it's as if the authors have reached out and wrapped their arms around your shoulders, reassuring you in the dark.
Readers have shared their emotions stirred by this masterpiece. One parent described it as a lifeline during tumultuous times, stating, "My child learned how to articulate his feelings, and I witnessed a significant shift in his ability to cope." This testimony encapsulates the book's power to resonate not just with children but with families navigating their emotional journeys together.
Moreover, the structure of the book is designed with intentionality. Each emotional theme is cradled within the pages like a precious gem waiting to be discovered. The illustrations stand out, adding an enchanting layer that draws readers in, making complex emotions accessible to young minds. Critics have lauded this synergy of visuals and text as a pioneering approach to children's literature-one that fosters empathy, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence.
Yet, not all reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Some readers argue that the gentle approach might dilute the gravity of certain emotions, suggesting that not every feeling can-or should-be soothed with simple breathing techniques. While this perspective certainly has merit, it does not detract from the book's primary goal: to empower children by expanding their emotional vocabulary. After all, understanding feelings is the first step toward mastering them.
As you journey through Breathing Makes It Better, it becomes clear that emotional literacy should never be underestimated. In a world fraught with challenges-where anxiety and stress loom large for both adults and children alike-this book serves as a refreshing reminder of the importance of recognizing, embracing, and expressing our feelings. 💖
Let's not forget the backdrop against which this book emerges. Published in 2019, amidst rising rates of anxiety and depression among the youth, Willard and O'Leary's work is a timely ode to emotional resilience. The current climate encourages discussions about mental health, and this book contributes significantly to that narrative. It carves a path for conversations that we must have with our children, offering a foundation that many families desperately need.
In essence, Breathing Makes It Better has the potential to transform how we approach our emotions. This isn't just a read for kids; it's a must-have for anyone willing to confront their emotional realities. So, breathe deeply, and allow these words to wash over you. As you digest the teachings within, embrace the notion that your feelings are valid and significant. 🌈💫
📖 Breathing Makes It Better: A Book for Sad Days, Mad Days, Glad Days, and All the Feelings In-Between
✍ by Christopher Willard; Wendy O'Leary
🧾 36 pages
2019
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