Absolutely No Worries

With an emergency parachute in her pocket and zombie self-defense skills under her belt, Emma is prepared for any catastrophe . . . so why does she still feel afraid?

This reassuring social-emotional picture book for young readers ages 4 - 8 shows kids that they are bigger than their fears.

Emma needs to make sure she’s prepared for whatever disasters may lie beyond the front door. A ladder to escape from exploding volcanoes? Check. Garlic in case a bloodthirsty vampire is poised to attack? Check. Extra socks for . . . well, just in case? Check!

When Emma is faced with a situation she is not prepared for, she learns the most valuable survival skill of all: to accept that it doesn’t have to be scary when some things are out of her control. Written for kids with big imaginations and everyday jitters, here is a picture book that shows that with a pinch of courage, you can be ready for absolutely anything.

Laurel Gale is a children’s book author whose middle-grade novels include Dead Boy; Story Magic; and Monster, Human, Other. She currently lives in Clarkson, WA. Visit laurelgale.com.

Anne Wilsdorf is the illustrator of several picture books, including Ezra Keats Honor Book Sophie’s Squash and ALA Notable Children’s Book Ruby Lu, Brave and True. She was the Swiss candidate for the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2000.