Mindful Bea and the Worry Tree

Anxiety can feel like it takes on a life of its own; for Bea, a child with springy curls and a disgruntled expression, it literally does: “Like a seed from underground,/ it sprouts alive, unleashed, unbound.” The tendrils of a willow tree curl around her as she worries about her birthday party and what-if questions run amok in her mind. When the doorbell rings, the tree’s “gnarled roots” come through the window, and Bea makes a beeline for the back door. After practicing mindful breathing, she joins her party guests. Höllbacher expresses Bea’s anxiety through streaking, crowded lines and wobbly shapes. Worry is sometimes inevitable, Silver suggests, but learning basic relaxation techniques (explored further in a note to caregivers) can go a long way toward empowering readers. Ages 4–8. [em](Apr.) [/em]