Little children have a surplus of fears which they carry around with them day by day. Sometimes all they need is someone to listen as they share their fears. That is what writer and illustrator Todd Parr has made possible with The I'm Not Scared Book. One page mentions a common fear; the opposite page reframes it. What are the virtues that make it possible for us to do this? Faith, courage, hope, and equanimity.
There is a German proverb which says: "Fear is a fence over which few leap." Open these pages and you will experience many leaps. This wise work is designed for children from 4 through 8 years of age. Here are a few examples showing how fears can be met:
• "Sometimes I'm scared of dogs. I'm not scared when they give me kisses."
• "Sometimes I'm scared when my family argues. I'm not scared when we hug and say I'm sorry."
• "Sometimes I'm scared I will make a mistake. I'm not scared when I know I tried my best."
