“An excellent parent and teacher resource for social and emotional learning, this enjoyable picture book is a must-read for every young worrier.” – Kids’ Book Review
“The way Whelan and Jones have approached this story and its concepts of childhood worries, and what most adults might consider trivial worries, is really remarkable.” – The Neverending Bookshelf
“With a strong message in mindfulness, this is a feel-good book that will be enjoyed just as much by the children being read to as by the adults doing the reading. I imagine that Don’t Think About Purple Elephants will become a bedtime favourite in many homes… and that purple elephants will not be thought about for a long time to come.” – NZ Booklovers
“I really enjoyed this book. It’s simple, engaging and wonderfully illustrated. I felt that it showed adults the effect anxiety can have on children (and the need for us to do what we can to address it) without scare-mongering or ever actually using the word “anxious”! It’s a small book with a bigger message – when we work together and care for each other, our troubles will often subside.” – Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
“I like the humour and honesty in this story. I love that it is a true story and consequently a realistic one. I also love that it will potentially help many children and parents alike as they grow together.” – Life As It Is
“The illustrations by Gwyneth Jones are perfectly charming and offer lots of topics for discussion as well as reinforcing the ideas of the narrative. Susan Whelan has taken a common problem experienced by children and has given it a gentle twist for a humorous resolution. Might help a few worried parents as well!” – Parenting without Tears
“This fun book is about small worries that often become bigger at nighttime – something that many children and adults alike experience. The book offers a creative solution to how to manage feelings of anxiety.” – Boston Post Adoption Resources
“This is a delightful book to help children manage their feelings of fear and anxiety. The illustrations are whimsical and allow for further discussions beyond the text.” – Book Share Time
“Sophie is a wholly credible character. Indeed in my experience, many young, particularly creative, highly intelligent, emotionally sensitive children are very similar to the young protagonist. Seemingly, being of a creative bent can have its drawbacks too.
However, among the coping mechanisms adults can offer is children’s literature and in particular, picture books such as this delightful one. From the safe place of a story world youngsters can explore ideas and find solutions: the inherent humour of Susan Whelan’s narrative and Gwynneth Jones’ detailed, slightly whimsical illustrations offer one such.” – Red Reading Hub
“Whelan and Jones have put some thought into Don’t Think About Purple Elephants; they clearly know children, and they don’t dismiss Sophie’s worries, but try to resolve them. The illustrations are lovely – brightly coloured and happy when Sophie is busy, and grey and ominous with oversized objects when she is worried. The resolution to Sophie’s worries is relatively simple and one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” moments that parents and teachers have.” – The Reader: The Booksellers New Zealand blog
“With the help of a purple elephant or two, Sophie and her family find a way to ease her worries and help her drift off for a good night’s sleep. With beautiful illustrations throughout that encourage dialogue and discussion, and short enough for a bedtime story, this one has become a firm favourite with the girls! – Real Mum Reviews
Compilation Lists
8 Books to Help Kids Manager Anxiety – Melville Mums
Best Books and Resources for Supporting Kids with Anxiety – Maggie Dent
Books to Support our Children’s Mental Health – Real Mum Reviews