Summary of Breathing Makes It Better: A Book for Sad Days, Mad Days, Glad Days, and All the Feelings In-Between, by Christopher Willard and Wendy O'Leary

Embrace emotions with 'Breathing Makes It Better'! Discover how breathing can transform sadness, anger, and joy into manageable feelings.

Welcome to the world of Breathing Makes It Better, where feelings aren't just acknowledged; they're practically celebrated like it's New Year's Eve, complete with a countdown and confetti! Written by the dynamic duo Christopher Willard and Wendy O'Leary, this illustrated gem offers a whimsical yet practical approach to navigating the rollercoaster of emotions that come with being human-because let's face it, adulting is hard enough without a proper manual for our feelings.

Right off the bat, the book recognizes that everyone-yep, even your grouchy neighbor-has days that swing from "Yay, life is great!" to "I can't even." With an array of whimsical illustrations to accompany the text, dear readers are treated to a vibrant visual experience while tackling some of life's most pressing questions: What on earth do I do when I'm sad, mad, or just plain confused? Spoiler alert: Breathing is key, and no, you won't get a medal for it, but you might just feel a whole lot better!

The narrative gives a shout-out to the wide range of feelings kids (and, let's be real, adults too) may experience. Sadness, anger, happiness-these emotions are all part of the delightful mess we call life. Willard and O'Leary expertly blend these emotions with breathing exercises that make you feel like a Zen master in training. Who knew that the secret to feeling better could start with a good ol' inhale and exhale? Cue the incense and meditation music!

In addition to the basics of deep breathing, the book suggests fun-and yes, slightly outlandish-ways to channel these feelings. Want to scream at the clouds on a bad day or dance like no one's watching on a happy one? Go right ahead! This book serves as a gentle nudge encouraging you to embrace those emotions rather than stuff them into the back of your mind where they can throw a tantrum later.

It's important to note that the language used in Breathing Makes It Better is designed to be accessible and relatable for young readers, which means no obscure references to existential crises or philosophical dilemmas here. Just pure, straightforward guidance that resonates with kids and the occasional perplexed adult who may need a reminder that it's okay to feel-well, anything.

As we reach the end of our journey through this delightful book, the final message is clear: no feeling should be disregarded, and each one comes with its own toolkit for coping. So, whether you're moping around because your favorite show got canceled, fuming because your sibling borrowed your favorite shirt without asking, or celebrating a birthday with cake that's far too delicious for its own good-Breathing Makes It Better has got your back.

In summary, Christopher Willard and Wendy O'Leary serve up a charming concoction of whimsy and wisdom in this illustrated guide. Perfect for children navigating their own feelings as well as adults who might need a little reminder that breathing can truly make things better. Take a deep breath, open this delightful book, and prepare to embrace the full spectrum of human emotions-one breath at a time!

Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.