I think that most young students could relate to Wemberly’s worries and knowing that they are not the only ones would be helpful! This book is a clear example of how, in picture books, illustrations reinforce the text.

The last page leaves you with such a warm feeling! This would be a great book for parents to read to their children before that terrifying first day of school, or by the teacher. I am a worrier, too, (but just quiet about it) so I could relate to Wemberly.

The first thing I thought about as I read this book was my younger sister! Boy, was she a worrier and she would have really loved this book. As Wemberly leaves in the afternoon, she tells her teacher not to worry, that she will be back tomorrow! The two become instant friends and enjoy their first day of school together. When she arrives however, her teacher introduces her to another student who also is carrying a doll and seems a bit shy. The source of her biggest worry is her first day of school. Wemberly worries constantly despite her grandmother telling her she worries too much. In this story, Wemberly, a young mouse, worries about everything! The author takes the readers through her list of worries – big ones and small ones. Henkes is realistic and gentle, reassuring without being dismissive.

She gets over her biggest fears, and has fun at school, but it's not as if worries can be obliterated from life. What really struck me with this book is that Wemberly still DOES worry, sometimes. but maybe it will take facing the fears, with a new friend, to really make a difference. In this story, Wemberly (who is a GIRL mouse, I might add-from the cover and name, I expected a boy for some reason!) worries about big things (like something happening to her parents) and small things (like spilling juice), she worries about her bunny doll (and when she worries she rubs her dolls' ears and then she worries the ears will fall off eventually!) But her biggest worry is starting school!!! Her parents and super-cool grandma tell her not to worry so much. Okay, I love Kevin Henkes! He is a genius! I want to read all of his books!!! I can't wait to share them with my kids! I love how he looks at children's joys and hopes and fears with absolute RESPECT.

Wemberly worried free online book