Children’s Picture Books Dealing with Feelings

by Amanda Driscoll
|
7 books
These books explore the big feelings of small children. From tantrums to grief, children have complex emotions that can be overwhelming at times. They need to see themselves in books to know they are not alone. The stories on this list range from comedic to lyrical and will resonate with children and parents alike to validate those emotions and offer tools to deal with them.
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The Rabbit Listened

Cori Doerrfeld, 2018
After Taylor loses something important to him, all the animals suggest different ways to deal with it. Only the rabbit listens—without offering advice—which is exactly what Taylor needs. Wonderfully understated book that offers comfort for those who have experienced loss and guidance to those trying to comfort them. Because sometimes you need to talk it out, and you just need someone to listen.

Maybe Tomorrow? (a story about loss, healing, and friendship)

Charlotte Agell, 2019
Elba drags a heavy block everywhere she goes. One day, she meets Norris, who is always happy and light, and a friendship forms. Eventually, Norris helps carry the block, allowing Elba to once again enjoy life. This meaningful book shows us the healing power of friendship and the ability of friends to lighten life’s loads.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Judith Viorst, 2009
This classic tale is a comedic exploration of how it feels when everything seems to be going wrong. We can all identify with how Alexander is feeling. This book offers the comfort of knowing everyone has bad days, you’re not alone, and tomorrow will be better.

Little Grump Truck

Amanda Driscoll, 2021
When things go wrong, Little Dump Truck becomes Little GRUMP Truck. I wrote and illustrated this book to show children and their caregivers that sometimes grumpiness happens. But when life gets overwhelming and emotions spiral out of control, mindfulness and meditation can bring one back to the center.

Small Things Mended

Casey W. Robinson, 2024
Cecil is suffering from a broken heart, but when he begins fixing things for neighborhood kids, he finds renewed purpose, and his own brokenness is mended as well. This sweet story shows the power of community and kindness to uplift and heal.

Grumpy Monkey

Suzanne Lang, 2023
Jim the monkey is grumpy, but don’t tell him that. And DON’T try to cheer him up. This funny story with hilarious illustrations shows us that sometimes we feel grumpy for no reason, and that’s okay. It validates feelings in a unique and humorous way.

Under Anna's Umbrella

Amanda Driscoll, 2025
Grief is like an umbrella… it protects us and is necessary at times, but it also isolates us and blocks light from our lives. After Anna’s father dies, she carries her umbrella everywhere. Until she meets a special friend who helps her lower it to see the sun and maybe even a rainbow. I wrote this very personal story after losing my husband in hopes of comforting others suffering from grief.