Bella and Bird Explore Anger
This children’s picture book, written by Deana Plaskon, PhD, LMHC, and illustrated by Lea Marie Ravottie, explores anger—its origins, outbursts, emotional processing, and mindful management. It tells the tale of Henry, who struggles with feelings of disappointment and frustration, channeling them into anger. But when he storms out into the pasture, He learns some powerful anger management lessons from his horse, Bella, and their friend, Bird.
The author beautifully introduces young children (and maybe adult readers) to how to identify the physiological and psychological signs of anger (but in children’s terms).
What this experience can teach, and what communication and mindfulness strategies can help diffuse anger. Learning tools early on to recognize and work through this natural emotion are vital to healthy development. This book is a perfect tool to help all ages process this emotion.
There is a link to additional activities, more in the “Bella and Bird” series, and a “reader’s” guide for adults in the Author’s Note. I can see this book being read aloud in a classroom (and therapy session) as a way of opening discussion about this emotion.
P.S. I love this horse, Bella, and need to get one. She’s like a little Buddha, with wisdom beyond her years!
Book and Image Courtesy of Dr. Deana Plaskon, PhD, LMHC
