Review by School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 4--"Have you ever noticed? Feelings are a lot like farts." Well, then. Clinical psychologist Willard and artist/educator Wosiski reveal the endless similarities feelings and farts share. Versatile veteran Campbell narrates thoughtfully, though never judgmentally, and with just a hint of humor because "We all have them. They can linger, but they usually don't last too long." Sometimes they're embarrassing: "You might wish they were private, but they don't always come out that way." Sometimes unpredictable: "They might be fast and fiery, other times loud and long." Stifling isn't recommended: "It's not so healthy to hold them in too long. You usually feel better if you just let them out." Protecting yourself? "If yours or someone else's are too overwhelming, you might want to take some space until they clear up." VERDICT This clever, funny approach to feelings (and farts) makes an excellent guide for the youngest children in navigating emotional challenges.
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Emotions and flatulence are a lot more similar than you might think. "Farts and feelings. Everyone has them!" But don't worry--"just like your farts, your feelings will pass!" The silliness of the book's subject matter makes it a clear attention-grabber, playing into children's general interest in all things scatological. Though funny, many of the comparisons are also rather insightful: "You might wish they were private, but they don't always come out that way." "If you pay attention to your body, it might tell you what is coming." The authors also offer useful advice: Talk to someone you trust if your farts or feelings hurt, refrain from holding them in for too long, and find a safe place to let them out. The softly rendered illustrations are tactfully done--no potty humor here. The images are mostly in shades of gray; Nakamura uses color sparingly and to great effect, playing up the pink on characters' cheeks or for bright, squiggly lines signaling an outburst. Children of varying skin tones and ethnicities are represented. Some scenarios may require an adult to help explain the connection between emotions and farts. An unconventional but useful primer to help youngsters make sense of overwhelming feelings.(Picture book. 5-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
