The day has begun and the world is full of noises, lights, sounds, and feelings. The alarm clock is loud, the sun is bright, and the shirt is too itchy. Our main character is struggling and experiencing sensory overload. How will she navigate her day when the world is so loud, bright, and overwhelming?
The grownups in her life allow her to self-regulate and tell them what she needs. Slowly, our main character is able to have a gentle hug, quiet time, and personal space in a dark place surrounded by comfy things.
Brightly detailed illustrations paint the background to this thoughtful story about a child with a sensory processing disorder. I love how this book carefully navigates the child’s experience and their ability to know their body best and advocate for what they need. It also illustrates how the adults in the child’s life allow them to lead the conversation and help them to self-regulate.
At the end of the book, author Jolene Gutièrrez gives helpful tips to help children adapt to their unique sensory needs. I highly recommend this book for anybody wishing to learn more about how kids experience the world around them.
--reviewed by Rachel L.