God, I feel sad: Bringing big emotions to a bigger God
Written by Michelle Nietert, LPC-S & Tama Fortner
Illustrated by Nomar Perez
Publisher Zonderkidz, 2023
Hardcover, 32 pages
ISBN 10 0310140846
ISBN 13 978-0310140849
Reading age 4-8 years
Grade 1-2
Often children cannot recognise how they are feeling or how to express themselves with their words. This book shares a simple and clear message to help kids identify feelings of sadness and how to respond. The book opens with all kinds of emotions God gives, and sadness is God’s way of helping us identify what troubles us. The illustrations complement the message with colourful images and great facial expressions that will appeal to a young child. Different suggestions are given to help children respond positively to their feelings of sadness. I especially liked the idea of sadness as waves on the shore, tiny ones that roll in just enough to wet your toes, or “big ones that swirl around and soak you with sad all the way through.” This is an excellent resource for all children, especially parents of children with special needs or autism. A great learning tool written by a professional counsellor. The book includes a Resource: www.GodIFeel.com. I can’t count the many times this book would have been invaluable to me when working in schools. This story would make a great series.