The Mouse, the Monster, and Me and Liking Myself children’s book reviews

As someone who has struggled with self esteem issues for her entire life, It is important to me that  my children have confidence in themselves. It’s often hard to know how to help them express their feelings in a positive way when it’s also a part of life that I’ve always had trouble with. I was happy to receive The Mouse, the Monster, and Me and Liking Myself  for review as they remind me of a similar series of books that I had when I was young.

Created by author Dr. Pat Palmer, now 81, and illustrated by Sue Rama, these timeless books, previously in black and white, are being brought to life again with new characters, bright illustrations and revised content that will appeal to today’s youth.

Each of these children’s books cover topics that can help children raise their self-image, feel better about themselves, deal with bullying, learn ways to manage anger, say no and communicate their feelings more openly.

The Mouse, the Monster and Me is all about “assertiveness for young people”.

“Engaging artwork and exercises illustrate aggressive “monster” and passive “mouse” behaviors, helping young readers identify these characteristics in themselves and in others. This book explores the “me” communication style, based on rights, responsibility, and respect. it teaches healthy, non-violent conflict management skills that help kids stop being — or attracting — bullies. When youngsters learn how to assert themselves appropriately, they gain self-esteem and safer, happier relationships.”

Liking Myself is a companion book to The Mouse, the Monster and Me. It can help children to learn to deal with emotions like anxiety, anger, depression, and being overwhelmed.

“This fun-filled , charming illustrated book is full of ideas and exercises to improve self-esteem and assertiveness, and build emotional literacy. Children learn to listen and to talk about their feelings. They also learn how to handle themselves when they feel upset or overwhelmed by encouraging them to write or draw their responses to specific scenarios”

We love that they pages are full of different sized and colored fonts, little pictures that illustrate different passages and fun, interactive questions to act out and think about. The message they give to children is just wonderful and I am happy to be able to share the books with mine. Both books would make a great gift for children ages 5 – 11.

Both books are available for purchase online, at bouldenpublishing.com, as well as local bookstores nationwide.