Too Much!: An Overwhelming Day

by Jolene Gutiérrez, Angel Chang (Illustrator)

A reassuring rhyming picture book about sensory overload and what you can do when everything is too much

When feelings go on overload,
I pause and breathe
and all is . . . slowed.

Sometimes everything is too much! Too loud, too bright, and all too overwhelming. Writing from her own experience with sensory processing disorder, Jolene Gutiérrez’s compassionate picture book explores the struggles of a sensorily sensitive child and how they settle themselves. Joined by Angel Chang’s beautiful illustrations, young readers will learn that it’s OK if some days are too much. An extensive author’s note to caregivers and educators explores sensory systems, sensory processing issues, and specific information about how to support kids with overstimulated nervous systems as they learn to soothe themselves.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Mental Health, Emotion, Disability, Fiction

32 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2023

About the author

Jolene Gutiérrez grew up on a farm in northeastern Colorado, surrounded by animals, plants, and history. Now, she lives with her family and a variety of animals in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. She is an award-winning neurodivergent teacher librarian and has been working with neurodivergent learners at Denver Academy since 1995. She’s a wife of 25+ years and mama to two young adults, three dogs, two cats, and an ever-rotating variety of other rescue animals. Jolene is an active member of SCBWI and The Authors Guild, part of the KidLitCollective and Picture Book Gold groups, and a co-creator of #KidlitZombieWeek. Jolene is represented by agent Kaitlyn Sanchez of Bradford Literary. She’s a contributor to If I Could Choose a Best Day: Poems of Possibility (2025) and the author of Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp (2026), Mamiachi and Me (2025), The Ofrenda That We Built (2024), Too Much! (2023), the Stars of Latin Pop series (2021), Bionic Beasts: Saving Animal Lives with Artificial Flippers, Legs, and Beaks (2020), and Mac and Cheese and the Personal Space Invader (2020).

Reviews

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ BOOK REVIEW ⭐️
TOO MUCH!: AN OVERWHELMING DAY
by Jolene Gutiérrez, illustrator Angel Chang,
Abrams Appleseed, out August 1, 2023.

A reassuring rhyming picture book about sensory overload and what you can do when everything is too much. Longlisted for the World Illustration Awards 2023.

SYNOPSIS
When feelings go on overload,
I pause and breathe
and all is . . . slowed.

Sometimes everything is too much! Too loud, too bright, and all too overwhelming. Writing from her own experience with sensory processing disorder, Jolene Gutiérrez’s incredibly helpful picture book explores the struggles of a sensorily sensitive child and how they settle themselves. Joined by Angel Chang’s beautiful illustrations, young readers will learn that it’s OK if some days are too much. An extensive author’s note to caregivers and educators explores sensory systems, sensory processing issues, and specific information about how to support kids with overstimulated nervous systems as they learn to soothe themselves.

MY THOUGHTS
I adore this compassionate and gorgeously illustrated book on sensory processing disorder, written for children 3-5 years of age and those who care for them. The cover perfectly captures the cacophony of overload, and the text, written by the talented author who has been impacted personally by the disorder, provides insight and understanding.

The author's note at the end is especially helpful for caregivers and educators as they support children with the disorder. Highly, highly recommended!

Thanks to @writerjolene, @angelchangart, and @abramskids for the ARC. Opinions are mine.

#toomuchanoverwhelmingday
#jolenegutiérrez #angelchang
#abramsappleseed
#childrensbooksonemotionsandfeelings
#sensoryprocessingdisorder
#bookstagramcommunity

[Alexa Patsalis · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has suffered with sensory processing difficulties my entire life and have not had the language to communicate my needs in relation to this, I wish my family and I had had this book when I was growing up. The back matter is where this book shines! The back matter starts with a note to educators and caregivers before moving on to concrete strategies for helping young people deal with their sensory processing needs, including the creation of a sensory diet. I’m 30 years old and am contemplating bringing a copy to my family to help explain my own sensory needs to them.

[Marisa Pierucci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I start with how much I was touched by this book? As a mom with a child with adhd and a special ed teacher of 17 years, I just can’t say enough good things. This is a must have for every child struggling with sensory processing issues and overwhelming days. The pictures were beautiful, it was written in verse and the way the mom gave the little girl just what she needed when it was too much touched my heart.

[T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me count the ways I love this book. Wait, there are too many ways! The back matter offers excellent tips. Loved it!!!

[Anna Wilczyńska · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taka krótka książka, a tyle się nauczyłam zarówno ja, jak i moja Mała Czytelniczka. Piękne ilustracje.

[burgundowa_melancholia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Proszę, zacznijcie zatrudniać kompetentnych ludzi do redakcji/korekty (np. mnie ❤️)

[Judith Valdés B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the picture book "Too Much! An Overwhelming Day," readers are immersed in the vivid experiences of a young child struggling to process an abundance of sensory information. This sensory overload can create anxiety and lead the child to seek solace in moments of solitude. With its vibrant illustrations and accessible language, it addresses sensory processing challenges and emphasizes the importance of providing support and validation to children in such situations. It serves as an invaluable resource for parents and educators seeking to cultivate an environment of understanding and promoting the social-emotional well-being of children. I highly recommend this book as a powerful tool for fostering empathy and creating a supportive space for children navigating the complexities of sensory challenges.

[czytam_do_herbaty · Rating 5 out of 5]

„Za dużo” to ten rodzaj krótkiej książeczki, który będzie idealny zarówno dla rodzica jak i dziecka. Dzięki niej, dziecko w łatwy i przystępny sposób zrozumie, że niewygody są jak najbardziej w porządku i że warto głośno to komunikować swojemu opiekunowi, natomiast rodzic, może z niej wynieść, że rzeczywiście pewne sytuacje, które dla nas dorosłych są „zwyczajne”, niekoniecznie będą takie dla dziecka i to, co mówi dziecko o tym jak się czuje jest bardzo ważne.

Książeczka jest bardzo przyjemna w odbiorze i będzie dobra nawet dla najmłodszych dzieciaków. Myślę, że temat przeładowań sensorycznych jest niezwykle ważny i to bardzo dobrze mówić o nim głośno, ponieważ wielu z nas dorosłych nie zdaje sobie sprawy jak pewne rzeczy mogą być uciążliwe dla dziecka.

[Emily Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have a kid who’s Autistic this is so useful for opening up a conversation about things that overwhelm or upset them. It’s charmingly written- v fun and positive. The illustrations are beautiful.

I’d also say, this book would be a great book to explain to other kids how autistic kids feel. It’s just lovely for anyone honestly.

[Jill S · Rating 5 out of 5]

TOO MUCH!: AN OVERWHELMING DAY brilliantly expresses sensory overload in a delicate and thoughtful way that is relatable to every child and will also promote empathy in both children and adults. There’s even an informative “note for caregivers and educators” in the back matter. The text and illustrations marry perfectly to create a spectacular and meaningful book.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars--A child with sensory processing issues has an overwhelming day when everything is just "too much." Thankfully, the adults around her know how to make her feel safe and comfortable.

This is a book that not just kids with sensory issues will relate to--most kids experience overwhelming situations that they need to step back from. It also models thoughtful, attentive behavior by adults when kids need a break.

[teach_book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wspaniała książka o cechach zaburzeń integracji sensorycznej.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great picture book to explain sensory processing disorder.

[Pamela Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew I would love TOO MUCH! AN OVERWHELMING DAY even before I read it, because my youngest shares the same challenges as the main character. Jolene Gutierrez perfectly captures the overwhelming stimulation and the rising anxiety of a young child who struggles to voice what she needs. Through the love and support of people around her, she’s able to calm her mind and find an inner peace. It is a heartfelt journey that will help others learn how to recognize sensory overwhelm and to approach it with kindness and empathy. It will also give children like my son someone to relate to. Angel Chang’s gorgeous illustrations bring this story to life. This book is an excellent addition for libraries and schools, and a meaningful gift for all the children in your lives.

[Candace Spizzirri · Rating 5 out of 5]

TOO MUCH! AN OVERWHELMING DAY by author Jolene Gutierrez addresses those moments when kids feel like things are too much/out of control, which all kids (and adults) can relate to. In the text, a child who has sensory processing issues has a day where she feels overstimulated by loud noises, bright sunlight, itchy clothing tags, tight coats, and more. “TOO LOUD! TOO BRIGHT! TOO ITCHY! TOO TIGHT!” I loved the rhyming text. Illustrator Angel Chang’s vibrant art compliments the author’s words perfectly. Included is back matter on strategies to manage sensory overload. A great choice for libraries, schools, and homes!

[Jessica Speer · Rating 5 out of 5]

With vibrant illustrations and relatable text, this story brings to life the struggle many kids experience with sensory overload. This book validates these feelings and experiences and helps readers and their caregivers navigate them. Author, Jolene Gutierrez, does a beautiful job highlighting the importance of recognizing discomfort with love and kindness as an important part of helping kids feel understood. The back matter includes additional insights and ideas, making this a great resource for homes, libraries, and classrooms. Highly recommend!

[Joyce Uglow · Rating 5 out of 5]

TOO MUCH! AN OVERWHELMING DAY: Young children will see themselves on these pages and find ways to overcome unwelcome sensory experiences. The pairing of Gutiérrez's spare rhyming text and Chang's responsive artwork show a young child's day from a jarring alarm clock through a series of pop-up problems that ultimately have effective and comforting solutions. The main character shows agency by advocating for what works for her. Educators and caregivers will appreciate the resources and suggestions provided in the extensive back matter.

[Michael Irvine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I was absolutely floored by TOO MUCH! An Overwhelming Day. Written with beautiful, flowing rhymes and bright, imaginative illustrations, the story presents a wonderful snapshot of a child’s life with sensory sensitivities. As a parent, I’ve heard a lot about sensory overload over the years, but this was the first time I understood what it feels like to live with this condition. Kudos to the author and illustrator! And the Back Matter is some of the most informative I’ve seen in my 9 years of reading countless picture books. I would highly recommend TOO MUCH! to any librarian, educator, or parent searching for an engaging picture book that will spark a lively discussion.

[deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really wonderfully thoughtful depictions of sensory overloads in different forms, and a nice predictable rhyming pattern to keep a steady flow of the book. I can see this being an insightful read for adults and a relatable or possibly even comforting one for litter readers.

[Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally love this book! Sensory overloads can be balanced back, I am so amazed this book talks about it, yay!

[Aolund · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short and effective picture book about sensory sensitivity, which uses rhyming text and the story of one child's overwhelming day to share reassurance and a sense of how to handle this feeling of "too much."

Themes: Sensory Sensitivity, We're All the Same/We're All Different, Calm/Peace
Age range: Toddler-Preschool

[Melanie Hetrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A story of a young child who is sensitive to particular tastes, smells, textures, sounds and lights.

I really love this idea of this book! It just seems as if the order of the story is out of whack. The page that begins "I take deep breaths. You hold my hand." seems as if it should come before the "Quiet time. Dark place." page.

Incredibly helpful parent info included. Recommended for one-on-one reading.

[skcocnaH · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simple, important message.

[Tricia Friedman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant! If you are in education in any capacity please check out this book.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book perfectly expresses what it feels like to be overwhelmed by all the sensory information you're receiving. A loud alarm clock, scratchy tag in her shirt, and loud kids in the school yard.
Written by Jolene Gutierrez, who also has sensory processing issues, she aims to legitimize sensory processing issues as being a valid issue, not just children misbehaving. She also offers some ways to calm down when you're feeling overwhelmed. Take some space, quiet and dark, take a deep breath, get a tight squeeze from mom, and put on some comfy clothes.

Adults understanding what children with these issues are experiencing and feeling can go a long way towards a more patient and supportive relationship.

[Natalie Tate · Rating 3 out of 5]

This picture book has a limited intended audience, but it's well written for this audience. Great back matter to help adults support children with sensory difficulties.

[Kathy Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this! TOO MUCH takes us from overwhelmed to comforted as the reader experiences a child’s sensory overload and ways they communicate their needs – all in a bright, kid-friendly story. Kids and adults will relate, especially those who struggle with SPD. It’s beautiful to look at and will be a great tool for parents, teachers and OTs, in addition to helping kids feel understood.

[Steena Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Told with lovely rhyming text by Jolene Gutiérrez, and beautifully illustrated by Angel Chang, this book would be great for anyone who has experienced a sensitivity to their surroundings. Loud noises, bright lights, and even itchy clothing, can sometimes be TOO MUCH. This book thoughtfully offers helpful strategies for sensory overload, and brings awareness to this topic. I hope this important book finds its way into many schools, libraries, and bookstores.

[Stephanie Gibeault · Rating 5 out of 5]

This rhyming picture book is about a child who feels overwhelmed by sensory stimulation, like lights, sounds, and and textures. The text is bouncy and the rhyme is spot on, making for an engaging read aloud. The illustrations are bright and eye catching, but also perfectly capture the main character’s feelings of overwhelm. Children who are sensitive to too much sensory input or who experience sensory processing disorder will feel seen in this book, and others will learn to appreciate we don’t all perceive the world in the same way. I particularly love the four pages of material at the back with information on the senses, sensory overload, and advice for caregivers and educators. An important book that should be on every bookshelf!

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

More for adults who have children with sensory processing issues than the kids themselves, I think. Though my daughter was entranced by the illustrations. Great resource pages at the back.