What If Roxy

by Jessica Ann

This is a story to help parents and their young children cope with anxiety disorders. I wrote this from the experiences of what I went thru with my son. It was difficult to see him struggle and I felt helpless. I thought since I was "Mom", I should be able to help him. I finally realized he needed more help than I could give him and that it was ok to have him get professional help and even medication. No one can tell you as a parent how to help your child, but you need to feel that you are making decisions that are based on their sole best interests. This is truly a labor of love that I hope may be able to help other young children struggling, realize they're not alone and they can feel better.

22 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 16, 2020

Reviews

[Steven Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loads of fun and easy to follow!! The activities were varied and are not redundant in any way. Sure to keep a child occupied for a long time!!

[Ella English · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book about an anxious little dog called Roxy who had some big worries. She was always worrying WHAT IF something bad happened. Her tummy was hurting her and the vet tried to help her and everyone tried to help her, she even talked to a therapist who calmed her nerves. In the end she went back to the vet and he gave her some medication all wrapped up in a tasty treat. And after that she felt happier and the worries went away a bit, at least to the point she could play and have fun without them interrupting her activities.

The illustrations of Roxy are so cute, and this book tries to address anxiety issues that many kids (and dogs) feel. It is very positive and shows you how to reach out if you are having trouble with anxiety. The only issue I had was that it was not simply enough written for a small child and the narrative was not really that focused to give a clear message to a child what this was really about.

[Readers Choice · Rating 5 out of 5]

What If Roxy, written by Jessica Ann, is a delightful and insightful children's book. The story centers around siblings Riley and Roxy. When it's time for Riley to head off to camp, Roxy becomes anxious. She keeps wondering, "What if something happens to him at camp?"

As time goes on, Roxy’s worries grow stronger, eventually leading to tummy aches. Despite Riley’s efforts to comfort and support her, the anxiety persists. They even pay a visit to Dr. Zach in search of answers. To discover what finally helps Roxy, you’ll have to read the book.

This is a must-read for parents of children dealing with anxiety. I especially loved the character of Riley, whose empathy and patience serve as a model for how to support loved ones with anxiety. The story encourages compassion and understanding in both kids and adults. Jessica Ann has crafted a beautiful, educational narrative that sheds light on childhood anxiety in a way that’s accessible and heartfelt. I'm truly glad I read it.

[Feather Chelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very useful tool

I decided to check out this book because I have a child experiencing a great deal of anxiety lately. I love that the author used dogs to make the story more engaging for younger children. It would be a useful tool for sparking meaningful discussion, helping kids realize that they are not alone in worrying, and even spreading awareness of anxiety and other mental health issues in children. I especially love all of the coping mechanisms presented in this book. It is a bit lengthy, but it could definitely be broken down into parts, depending upon the attention span of each child.

[Kristy Sheed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartfelt and comforting story that gently explores childhood anxiety through the eyes of a young child (although the child is puppy in this case). Written from real-life experience, the book captures both the confusion children can feel and the quiet worry parents often carry when they don’t yet have the words to help.

This story feels thoughtful and reassuring, and the illustrations add a lovely sense of comfort. It’s a little longer than some picture books, but that actually works well, as it can be read over a few nights. A comforting read for families navigating big feelings with little ones.

[Melissa Blizzard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully written and illustrated children's picture book about two adorable tiny puppies who love spending time together and having fun. when one puppy, Roxy, develops anxiety, she must be rushed to the puppy doctor for a checkup and is prescribed puppy anxiety medication. While the journey and process become a grand adventure, there always exists the risk of meddling with parental decisions of whether to prescribe children medications. Luckily (or hopefully!) this was not the motive of the author of this beautifully presented tale about two precious puppies!

The fact that the author provides colorful photographs of the actual puppies and her with her son is a wonderful addition!

[Rella B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughtful and beautifully written, this story follows a pup dealing with “what ifs” or anxiety. It’s very relatable for kids who experience these feelings, while still being simple enough for others to understand. It also offers helpful ways to manage anxiety, such as deep breathing, positive thinking, and seeking support from adults or professionals. It’s a meaningful and awareness-raising read best shared with an adult, though the illustrations could still be improved.

[Gianna Scipione · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gentle and heartfelt story that helps young children and parents navigate anxiety with honesty and hope. So many children suffer from anxiety, so this is a great book that reassures children that they are not alone. It also offers comfort to parents by validating the difficulty of knowing how to help and affirming that seeking professional support is a loving and courageous choice.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must have for school counselors

Unfortunately, many children, even kids in elementary school, suffer from anxiety. This little book would be a great resource for counselors or families who have an anxious child or wonder if their child might have an anxiety disorder.

[T.A. Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

What If Roxy is a loving, important book addressing childhood anxiety disorder and depression, effectively portrayed through the experiences and emotions of a sweet dog named Roxy. Utterly clear, sympathetic, honest and potentially life changing.

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Precious

I adore this book! It is one of the most beautifully illustrated books I've ever read. It was such a sweet story of overcoming anxiety and getting the love and support needed. It's a sweet and helpful story!

[Carolyn Watson-Dubisch · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet story about a little anxious dog that always worried. I liked it and it had some good ideas for dealing with anxiety and a good message. A cute book to share at bedtime, but a bit long for a group story time.

[Dawn Feltrop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by the author’s own experience with her son, the narrative feels genuine and heartfelt. The care, perseverance, and love developed over fifteen years are woven seamlessly throughout the book, creating a powerful and uplifting reading experience.

[Janet Ashmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

"What if Roxy" is an excellent children's picture book about a puppy with excessive worries. Children will relate to the plot and will love the adorable illustrations. Parents will be thrilled to learn actual techniques that help children with similar anxiety issues.

[Natalie Horseman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tender, relatable story that supports children facing anxiety. Warm, hopeful, and perfect for encouraging emotional understanding.

[Jade Willemse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book with my son, and he especially loved the colourful illustrations.

[Liezl Russell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Roxy and Riley are certainly cute characters. However, the author would benefit from having the story professionally proofread, especially when it comes to punctuation.