Ruby’s Tools for Making Friends

A trio of tools help a young fox handle social anxiety in this picture book focused on emotional regulation. At her new school, Ruby’s classmates, a mix of animal and human children, greet the teacher’s plan for an egg-drop project with fast, loud chatter. “How can I help my group if I can’t speak up?” Ruby wonders. But the measuring tape she carries helps Ruby count her breathing, and safety goggles help her to see things in a new way. After she enlists a quiet classmate’s support, the group adopts Ruby’s plan, which involves use of a third tool, pliers, to remind her of her flexibility. Elaborately worked, digitally finished watercolor spreads by Stott appoint the classroom with cubbies and science mobiles, and show its pupils with close attention to personal details and readable emotions. And as the little fox learns to visualize her instruments to remember “I’m okay,” the project’s outcome helps readers appreciate taking on new experiences with a toolbox of actions. Human characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 4–8. (June)