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Angry Me

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A young child tells us what makes her angry and how she tries to let the anger come and go. An artful starting point for conversations about strong feelings.

“I get angry,” says a little girl, looking fiercely in the mirror. Sometimes she gets angry when someone is mean and tries to take her toy away, when it feels unfair that there’s not enough time to go swimming, when she’s tired and just wants to go home, or when the kids at school leave her out, hurting her feelings.

When she’s angry, she tries to remember to use her words — even though that doesn’t always work. Sometimes she can’t find the right words, or the words don’t come out the way she intends. But sometimes words do help, and when her anger melts away a new feeling can blossom.

Sandra Feder’s cleverly constructed text presents different situations in which a child might feel angry, creating a nuanced look at anger and its many underlying emotions. Rahele Jomepour Bell’s illustrations show a loveable, angry little girl, brimming with personality, who learns how to express herself as she moves through her feelings.

32 pages, Hardcover

First published May 20, 2022

2 people are currently reading
83 people want to read

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Sandra V. Feder

13 books9 followers

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5 stars
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81 (43%)
3 stars
41 (21%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Jilanne.
Author 5 books33 followers
June 13, 2022
I LOVE this concept book! How often do we tell kids (especially girls) that anger isn't an acceptable emotion? So this unusual, bold statement immediately got my attention: "I get angry." This statement is paired with a young girl looking at her reflection in the mirror, her shoulders hunched, her fist clenched around her toothbrush, her expression one of thinly veiled anger. She not only looks angry with herself but with the world, too. And the illustration is a perfect extension of the text. Young readers will immediately recognize this feeling, as they often struggle to process their emotions. This opening statement offers them a way toward having their anger acknowledge, honored, given its own space. What a relief! The text then steps through many different examples where anger takes shape, It's-my-turn anger, being-the-subject-of-gossip anger, someone-ate-the-last-one-and-it-wasn't-me anger, I'm-so-tired anger, I'm-so-sad anger, etc. Then the author takes a turn toward using your words as a way of coping. In the hands of a less capable writer, this could have turned into a simple lesson, but Feder doesn't take that simplistic route. Words sometimes work, but often those words won't come, maybe just angry sounds. And sometimes it feels like no one is listening when the words do come. Using your words doesn't create a magical happy ending to every situation. Sometimes words that do help may come from someone else. And sometimes expressing your angry words lets the anger go and creates space for a new and better feeling. Adults take note. This may work for us, too. Expressively illustrated and truthfully/heartfully written, this is a perfect book to help kids navigate angry feelings by taking that first important leap and acknowledging that those feelings exist. An important addition to home or school libraries.
Profile Image for Tonja Drecker.
Author 3 books236 followers
May 8, 2022
Anger can come for various reason, and this read points them out in a way, which young readers will easily identify with.

A little girl is angry, and this is something she often feels for a variety of reasons. One by one, she goes through every day examples, and then, she switches gears to show how she responds. Even these vary greatly, and sometimes, she can't figure out the best way to handle things. But others times, maybe she can turn her anger into something else, after all.

This is a book about being angry. It's geared for ages 3 to 6 and does a great job at melding with this age group. The situations come from every day events, which most readers will be familiar with and sympathize with. Nothing bad really happens, just explaining which moments can cause anger...and that in a very concise and direct way. In other words, there isn't any preaching or heavy wording involved, but keeps it age interesting and appropriate.

The illustrations work with the text, making sure the situations are clear as well as the girl's emotions. They have an artistic flair, while still making everything identifiable. When the emotions switch gears, it's also easy to see. So, kids will be able to flip through this one on their own and know pretty well what is going on.

I was surprised how well this one address anger and still keeps it in a form, which works great as a read-aloud and doesn't feel like an adult preaching to the kids. It also shows that not all solutions are easy to solve, but sometimes, things can be turned around.

It's a well-done read for the topic and will connect with many listeners. I received an ARC and was surprised at how well done this is.
Profile Image for Nessa.
527 reviews7 followers
June 23, 2022
Good picture book about anger. It was cute and had a lot of good situations where sometimes its hard to find the right words.
Profile Image for Lori.
2,539 reviews54 followers
November 23, 2024
A great addition to the SEL tub. Beautifully woven together.
Profile Image for Miloureadsbooks.
34 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2022
I first wrote this review for my Instagram @miloureadsbooks
Some of my classmates researched anger in picture books, and concluded that it was still a bit of a taboo subject, especially for girls, who are supposed to be gentle and kind at all times. How happy I am that the book, Angry Me, is breaking this prejudice in such a delicate and though provoking way!
This story explores the different emotions behind being angry. You might think someone was being mean or unfair. You might feel tired or sad. This is all explained with beautiful phrasing like ''What about me? - angry'' and ''I didn't do anything wrong - angry''.
The girl then tells us that she tries to remember to use her words when she is upset. Sometimes, this seems too hard, other times, she still sounds harsh, or she is not heard. At times, she is successful though, or other people's words help her understand her feelings.
This picture book is so relatable, for kids and older readers alike. It took me embarrassingly long to stop suppressing anger and see what feelings were underneath and learn to express them. I really wish I had this book when I was young. Not only does it clarify the concept of anger, it is also validates and forgives. We are humans and mess up. That's life.
I also adore the illustrations, which show a lot of diversity! For a book about anger, they contain so much love too, love for their daughter and love between friends. Finally, I thought it was amazing to see how the illustrator showed the bathing suit reflected in the water and even in the stairs of the swimming pool. This displays a true eye for detail and dedication to her work as an artist.
Profile Image for Daniele Kasper.
Author 4 books303 followers
March 18, 2022
This story was an absolute delight to read from the first page to the last. A tale about little people handling big emotions, the author does a fabulous job making sure young readers understand their feelings are valid instead of punished.

This story was entertaining and educational, which can be a tricky balance to maintain in a children’s book, and I will be suggesting it to teachers whenever possible. Mental health is such a critical part of childhood that often gets overlooked. Incorporating social and emotional education into children's picture books is a tried and true way to teach an important life skill in a way that is fun. This would be an amazing addition for classroom libraries, counselling offices and more.

This story was adorably illustrated. The hand painted feel to them was a nice touch rather than the overproduced computer generated images we often see. The prose was simple, making it an easy read for a budding young reader, but the simplicity of the words did not undermine or detract from the power and importance of the message behind them. There are many parts that will make for excellent discussion points, such as what makes us angry, triggers, how to use our words, and how to handle an outburst. This can be used in lessons about coping skills and anger, as well as character and life skills.
Profile Image for Carolyn Bragg.
398 reviews8 followers
March 29, 2022
A little girl describes many situations when she feels "angry," from feeling left out, feeling injustice, defending someone, or feeling helpless (among others).

She has been taught to express what she wants or how she feels--in place of the emotion, by "using her words"--and admits that in some cases, for instance, being tired or knowing that it won't help, makes it difficult.

But she doesn't let anger last long, and when it's gone, there is room for much nicer feelings. (Like looking at photos with mom and remembering fun times!)

Some children naturally have more difficulty with anger than others. With help, patience, and training, they gain control over the strength and length of strong negative feelings.

The book explores feelings of frustration in an open and matter-of-fact way that everyone can relate to, and invites readers to recall or share their own experiences.

This book addresses a vital subject in societies with "I can't help it" attitudes! These are skills all children (and adults) should be taught! It is recommended for 3-6 year olds, but is appropriate for all ages from 3 up.

5/5 Stars

Thanks to House of Anansi Press and NetGalley for the preview of this ebook in pdf; the review is voluntary.

#AngryMe #NetGalley
Profile Image for Angie.
1,117 reviews16 followers
March 13, 2022
Angry Me is a picture book about a little girl who experiences some big emotions. The story shows that people get angry sometimes and for a variety of reasons. The story also ends with the little girl creating some artwork as a strategy to help with her anger. It also gives readers a chance to see what others’ reactions might be to your anger. I also like that it includes the idea that sometimes we can’t access language when we are angry, when she is unable to find the words to describe what is happening. We often tell children to “use their words” but sometimes they are not in the right space to do that and I think this is an important part of teaching social-emotional lessons.

Each page has detailed pictures and limited text, usually 2-3 sentences. I think this book would be an excellent addition to a PreK-3 classroom library and could also be used in family or therapy settings as an opportunity to help young children discuss their feelings.

I really appreciate the opportunity from Netgalley and the publisher to read and review an advance copy of this book! I am looking forward to purchasing a copy for my students in the future!
Profile Image for Children's Bookshelf.
408 reviews37 followers
March 25, 2022
I’ve found over the years that in the right hands, books about emotions and emotional awareness have been enormously helpful in the classroom. Kids will be kids and they’re still learning how to properly handle these emotions. Outbursts and behavioral problems are common, especially within the first 3 or 4 years of school.
This book is about anger and recognizing that it’s temporary, it looks at potential causes and also the best way to deal with it. This young girl is having troubles controlling her anger but is very self-aware and looks at what’s making her mad. She sees that her attitude needs to change and with some patience, she tries a different approach and it works!
I love that this book doesn’t magically cure her of her frustrations or anger. It’s realistic in the sense that she recognizes that the anger still comes and that she needs to figure out how to not let it, negatively effect her behavior.
This will be very useful for parents or teachers dealing with this kind of situation. Definitely an excellent addition to any children’s bookshelf, go check it out!
Profile Image for Stephanie Bange.
2,061 reviews23 followers
December 15, 2022
A great conversation starter...

There are many things that can make this young girl angry: when someone is mean to her, when someone whispers a secret in front of her, when someone ate her cookie, when she is frustrated... She tries to control it by remembering to use her words, to speak up for herself, and when the anger passes, she feels much better.

Feder has captured the strong feelings of anger in many scenarios, each believable. Short sentences get right to the point and match the tension she feels. Digitally created illustrations by Rahele Jomepour Bell fully capture the rage this brown girl feels when she is on the verge of being out of control and when she is able to process her feeling and her frustrations become resolved. I keep going back to the same double page spread of her looking at herself in the mirror and stating simply, "I get angry".

Great for counselors and therapists to start a conversation with a child who has difficulty dealing with anger.

Highly Recommended for PreSchool-grade 3.


Profile Image for Carmen.
559 reviews57 followers
May 7, 2022
I received a copy of Angry Me by Sandra V. Feder and Rahele Jomepour Bell from Groundbook Books in exchange for an honest review.

Angry Me is such a great picture book that explores anger - the reasons for it and the ways that it can be expressed that validates the emotion and the individual feeling it. In this story, we follow. a young child as she tells us all about the times in which she gets angry. This is conveyed through the pictures, the expressions frequently heard from young children, and the simple yet expressive glimpses of dialogue with the other characters in the book. While anger is generally conveyed in such a negative way, Angry Me demonstrates how these strong feelings just need to be discussed and validated for children to begin learning how to handle and express their feelings.
Profile Image for Bunny .
2,395 reviews116 followers
March 22, 2023
Oh, this is such a great children's book.

A little girl explains why she gets angry. Sometimes it's because she doesn't want to share. Sometimes it's because she's tired, or life isn't fair, or because she's really sad. Sometimes there's no words that can explain why she's so darn angry.

This book is amazing for kids whose emotions are just starting to really rev up, in ways they can't explain to grown ups, or even to themselves. Life isn't always fair when you're little, and everything can set you off. It's up to the grownups, as seen here, to help kids understand those emotions and express themselves.

Jeremiah wasn't entirely impressed, but he got the message. And we both really loved the beautiful artwork.
Profile Image for Wendi Lee.
Author 1 book480 followers
March 24, 2022
My first grader and I read this book together. It's about a little girl who is angry - from grief, from frustration, from sadness, from exhaustion. My daughter empathized with this little girl, and the concept of being angry and sometimes not having the words to describe why. After experiencing anger in different scenarios, the little girl in the book is able to find solace again. My daughter also thought this was relatable.

She's asking for a hardcover copy when it's published, so she can read it again and again.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
Profile Image for MookNana.
847 reviews8 followers
May 3, 2022
This is a very helpful resource for young children to explore the concept of anger. Several relatable scenarios show why someone might get angry and possible ways to deal with the feeling. This offers kids a vocabulary for their emotions and a chance to be seen and validated for what they feel and experience. This would be a very helpful book to have on hand for pre-schoolers as they learn to manage big feelings.

Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
Profile Image for Syntaxx.
237 reviews
July 20, 2022
Miigweetch to Netgalley, House of Anansi Press Inc., and Groundwood Books for the DRC.

This is an illustrated children’s book about a little girl dealing with her anger. This would be a good book to have in an early education or elementary classroom, especially when working on expressing, labeling, and processing feelings in a healthy and appropriate way.

The simple language used is perfect for young readers, and is straightforward so the message of the story remains clear and unobfuscated. I enjoyed the colorful illustrations and found the art style complimentary to the text.
Profile Image for Patricia.
12 reviews3 followers
June 17, 2022
Loved this approach! I feel like this book captured so many different feelings of anger and why a child might be experiencing it. Could be useful in helping express to a grown-up how they're feeling, or empathizing with others who are currently upset. Great way to open up a conversation with little ones about dealing with negative emotions! Also the art was SO cute! Rahele has such a beautiful art style. It always gives me major Gyo Fujikawa vibes, which is always a huge plus in my book <3
59 reviews
July 15, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and House of Anansi Press Inc for giving me this earc in exchange for an honest review.
This is an illustrated children's book about a young child dealing with her anger. I think it is a great book for the little kids in your life and helping then deal with feelings of anger in a healthy manner though i am not a parent. I do think that even for adults it can be beneficial reminder for us to do better.
Profile Image for Autumn (Triquetra Reviews).
440 reviews16 followers
August 16, 2022
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

As someone who was an angry child and didn't have a good support system, this book would have helped.

It helps to show the range of anger, and why kids might be feeling angry. The situations depicted are all ones that I struggled with and ones that I think most kids struggle with as well.

Overall, a good book that will help with social emotional skills!
Profile Image for Kalis +.
53 reviews1 follower
August 22, 2022
short and sweet review for a short and sweet book.
This is a book about a little girl who describes all the different things ways she gets angry and what kinds of things make her feel that way.
It’s a great little book for any child, especially ones that struggle to understand why they’re upset and have difficulty regulating their emotions.
I’d recommend this to all parents of young children :)
Profile Image for The Library's Ghost.
279 reviews36 followers
March 5, 2022
I absolutely loved this little book. Describing ways we can get angry and the things that can make us angry in such and easy format will be so beneficial for younger kids that are learning how to navigate their emotions. The writing is short and clear and the art is very playful and nice. I really enjoyed the whole thing.
Profile Image for Paulina M..
575 reviews22 followers
June 10, 2022
Representation: 10
Story: 8
Illustration: 10

I love books that help children process their emotions. Feder did a great job normalizing anger in Angry Me. Great book to share with children. I particularly love the part that connects rage and sadness.

** Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review. **
Profile Image for Debra.
1,742 reviews
August 3, 2023
A child goes through the many reasons she has been angry and how it does not feel good to be angry.

I really liked the illustrations in this story. I talk at school with students about how our feelings matter and we can always find ways to work through them to find other feelings. These illustrations are lovely!
Profile Image for Latifah S Ningrum.
559 reviews3 followers
April 28, 2025
This book is interesting because it is a bit connected to the feelings experienced when angry that is shown. What's even better is that this book also explains how we can control ourselves when we are emotional, especially for little girls who are easily emotional. If I have a daughter who is still a child, I want to give this book to her.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
249 reviews30 followers
June 17, 2022
This book is a necessary addition to any collection, whether school, home, or public library. A nuanced discussion of the types of anger and the ways we express that anger. Learning that once our anger comes out, we are ready for a new feeling is a powerful lesson for readers of all ages.
Profile Image for Amy.
3,509 reviews33 followers
August 19, 2022
This is a fantastic book for children who may struggle with controlling their temper and managing their anger. I love that it lists different reasons why a child may feel anger and also provides ways they can handle that anger. The illustrations are also wonderful.
Profile Image for SamSamSam.
2,058 reviews6 followers
December 24, 2022
I LOVED this beautiful exploration of so many different kinds of anger. It's so direct and normalizing. I wish I could read this in storytime, but I think the kids would have a hard time keeping track of all the scenarios. Probably better for a one-on-one read
Profile Image for Mindy.
544 reviews
January 30, 2023
Cute story about how strong being angry can be but how someone can change her feelings into happier ones. I liked the colorful pictures and easy language for early readers. As an educator, I will definitely be buying to have on hand when we discuss our feelings. Thank You to NetGalley for the arc!
Profile Image for Kelly Teen Librarian.
217 reviews
November 29, 2023
Anger is one of the most natural responses to frustrating situations. I hear ya, kiddo. Love that you were able to express yourself in this lovely book. Great illustrations, wonderful use of color, beautiful story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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