Being Edie is Hard Today

An engaging picture book with a striking message, “Being Edie is Hard Today” explores the themes of childhood anxiety, empathy, and self-confidence with subtle humour and a story that is appropriate for a younger audience and contains a message deep enough for older readers to relate to. Readers join Edie as she navigates her tough day, and they witness how her imagination allows her to escape some of her feelings, yet also eventually coming to understand herself and others a bit better. The book's themes of growing up and confronting personal and social problems are appropriate for all elementary-level students. In the classroom, it could be read aloud to encourage discussions about personal growth, self-calming strategies, and to offer reflective writing prompts. The book’s illustrations and images could inspire art activities and discussions about ways to express one's identity through art.