Phil’s Big Day: A Groundhog’s Story

Everyone is excited for Punxsatawney Phil’s big day. . . except for him.

It’s the night before Groundhog Day, and Phil can’t sleep. His family’s voices fill his head: It’s a family tradition! You’ll make us so proud! We’re all counting on you, you, you! Making pancakes usually sets Phil’s mind at ease, but before he can finish making this batch his little sister, Marla, joins him in the kitchen. She can’t wait for his big day and insists on helping him practice. She even teaches him a poem to help him keep things straight.

But when Phil’s big (scary) day arrives, his nerves take over and his mind goes blank. What had Marla said? If you see your shadow does it mean an early spring? Or is that if you don’t see your shadow? His worries are all coming true until he has an idea that saves the day.

In her picture book Phil’s Big Day, Liza Woodruff warmly and reassuringly addresses the common but consuming feelings anxiety brings up, and suggests coping mechanisms useful for grown-ups and kids alike. Readers who struggle to have fun in the face of their fears will resonate with Phil’s restless thoughts and find joy as Phil takes on his challenges with a supportive sister at his side.

Liza Woodruff has has illustrated over twenty picture books including three she also wrote: Emerson Barks, A Quieter Story, and Once Upon a Winter Day, which received four starred reviews. She lives with her family in Vermont.