In my first-grade classroom, big feelings show up every day. Sometimes it’s over a broken crayon. Sometimes it’s because someone else got the last spot in line. That’s why Bella and Bird Explore Anger was such a breath of fresh air. It’s a story that understands what anger feels like for a child, how fast it can take over, and how confusing it can be to calm down.

The artwork is just beautiful. It’s soft, gentle, and full of heart. Every page feels like a quiet sketch brought to life with care and warmth. The pencil-like textures and warm colors give the story a calming feel. It’s all done in a way that matches the tone perfectly. It’s the kind of art that invites you to slow down and take a closer look.

What I loved most was how Bella and Bird talked to Henry with kindness and patience. They didn’t scold him or try to shut down his feelings. Instead, they explained things in a way that made sense. The tools they offered like counting to cool down and using an emotion wheel are things I could actually use in my classroom.

The pictures are warm and full of gentle humor. Bella feels like the wise teacher we all wish we could be every day, and Bird keeps things light just when it’s needed. As a teacher, I’m always looking for books that help kids grow in ways that matter beyond the ABCs. This one does exactly that. I’ll be keeping Bella and Bird Explore Anger close by.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0FG5MSTNB

Bella and Bird Explore Anger is a warm, accessible, and insightful children’s picture book that tackles one of childhood’s most overwhelming emotions: anger. Written by clinical therapist and educator Deana Plaskon, this book is part of the Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers series, which aims to help children ages 5–10 build emotional literacy and healthy coping mechanisms.

The story follows a young boy named Henry who is visibly upset after being denied a slice of his favorite pie. With support from Bella, a gentle therapy horse, and Bird, her humorous avian sidekick, Henry explores what anger feels like, how it affects others, and how to handle it constructively. The narrative flows naturally, balancing humor and wisdom, and gives children clear, memorable tools such as “box breathing” and “cool-down counting” to self-regulate their emotions.

What sets this children’s book apart is its balance of psychological insight and kid-friendly storytelling. Through repetition, metaphor, and hands-on practices, children are empowered to identify and express their emotions in healthier ways.

Lea Marie Ravotti’s watercolor illustrations are charming and expressive, bringing tenderness and vibrancy to every page. Bird’s quirky remarks lighten the mood while reinforcing key concepts, making the book as entertaining as it is educational.

This picture book is not just for children, it also provides guidance for caregivers and educators. The Author’s Note is a thoughtful note, offering practical advice and additional coping strategies beyond the story. Plaskon’s background in mental health brings credibility and depth to the narrative, without ever making it feel clinical or preachy.

Bella and Bird Explore Anger is an engaging and emotionally intelligent picture book that successfully demystifies a tough emotion. It’s a must-read for parents, therapists, teachers, and, most importantly, children navigating big feelings. Highly recommended as both a story and a therapeutic tool.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0FG5MSTNB

Bella and Bird Explore Anger follows a young boy named Henry who’s having a rough day. He’s angry because he can’t have his favorite pie. Enter Bella, a gentle horse, and Bird, her cheeky companion. Together, they help Henry name his feelings, understand what’s going on inside his body, and learn tools like box breathing and cool-down counting to manage his anger. Along the way, Henry learns that emotions aren’t bad, but what you do with them matters.

I found the writing clear and thoughtful, but also playful enough to keep kids interested. The pacing moves along well, and the dialogue between characters feels natural. Bella is the calm, reassuring type. Like the adult you’d want nearby during a meltdown. Bird adds a touch of humor that keeps things light. What impressed me most was how the book tackles a tough subject without being preachy. It doesn’t shame anger, which is a big deal. Instead, it treats it like something normal, something manageable, something even adults mess up sometimes.

I also really liked the breathing exercises and the way the book tied feelings to physical sensations. That’s such a smart and helpful concept for kids, and it’s presented in a way that feels doable. Honestly, the pie metaphor might be my favorite part, it’s funny, but also relatable. We’ve all gotten mad over something that feels huge in the moment but ends up being something small and understandable once we calm down. The artwork throughout the book is colorful, beautiful, and full of warmth, wrapping each page in a comforting glow.

I think Bella and Bird Explore Anger is a kind and clever picture book that would be great for kids ages 5 to 10, especially those who are learning to handle big emotions. It would be just as useful in a classroom as it would be at home, and it’s perfect for any child who sometimes explodes. It’s comforting, practical, and full of warmth.