A Voice in the Storm

Mountford (The Circles in the Sky) contemplates two serious, related skills in this compassionate book of counsel: recognizing one’s distress, and talking about it with another. Starring a cast of animal characters displayed in highly stylized decorative art that works to soften some of the story’s more anguished moments, the pages draw a parallel between approaching weather and a whirlwind of emotions felt by protagonist Rat. Though she’s been “sighing a lot lately,” Rat can’t find the words to talk to her friends. Taking off as a big storm begins, Rat experiences a terrifying encounter with Snake, then collides with Bear, a warm presence who helps her find shelter. Suggesting that the two wait out the squall while it frees its voice, Bear also says just what Rat needs to hear: “It’s not easy carrying a storm inside…. Even more so when you keep it all to yourself.” In chapter book–like prose that leans into big emotions, Bear takes a long, relaxed look at experiencing and regulating feelings (“Crying is a wonderful way to soothe ourselves”), helping to leave the protagonist, and perhaps the reader, feeling both heard and better equipped. Ages 3–7. (Nov.)