The cover says it all – Go Away Worry Monster!
In Go Away Worry Monster, Archie is worried about starting a new school tomorrow. The Worry Monster is adept as intensifying Archie’s worries for the next day and has no intention of easily letting Archie go. Brooke Graham’s engaging and empowering narrative sees Archie handle this expanding monster by himself.
I love how Archie decides to try to get rid of the Worry Monster on his own, because he is a big boy now. Following some relaxation techniques he previously learned from Mum, he tackles the worry head on with facts. Of course the Worry Monster hangs around for a little while longer, but Archie has one more trick up his sleeve. And, it works!
Tatlow-Lord’s artwork is brilliantly expressive. Every page, from the first spread when Worry Monster wheedles in, its body language classically worry wort style and hilarious with a sock over its head, will appeal to kids! We flicked through the pages like a cartoon. We loved watching Teddy, Toby and Owl’s changing expressions and Archie becoming progressively confident.
I urge you to pour over the pages for clues – count the socks! Mr. 7
loved the scene where Teddy, Toby and Owl are tackling Worry Monster when he looms in his largest form over Archie. His favourite picture was of teddy crossed armed and confident by the time Archie is onto fact three.
As Monday-itis is often an issue at our place, we read this book and used the fact techniques. It got Mr. 7 going on a roll and by end of breakfast he was on Fact #15 of why he didn’t need to worry. It was really lovely to see how wonderful books such as this one have positive impact on children. I’m so glad I have this on our bookshelf. I hope you get one too.
Suggested read aloud to 5+. Recommended for a beginner to intermediate reader. Check out my notes on reading levels here.
Published by EK Books, 2020.
If you would like this book for your child’s bookshelf, check out your local bookshops, because bookshops are amazing places and should be supported to keep them open! However, the convenience of clicking from your comfy sofa is sometimes a necessity. In that case, Booktopia it!
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