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Sometimes the biggest monsters aren't under the bed. Sometimes, they're inside us.
A gentle, reassuring picture book that helps children embrace difficult emotions and discover that even the biggest feelings can become a friend.
Written by Sybille Sparke · Illustrated by Tom Burchell
There's a Monster Inside Me encourages children to discover that even the most overwhelming feelings can be transformed. Through gentle, rhythmic verses, the story brings an inner monster to life, helping children to understand emotions which can sometimes feel too big to handle.
As the child journeys alongside their monster, they learn that it is not something to be feared or disowned, but something that can be understood, accepted and even befriended.
The story sets out to create a shared space for children and their parents or caregivers to explore difficult feelings together. Rather than offering easy solutions, the book encourages conversation and connection.
Unlike traditional stories where monsters need to be defeated, the book's central message is that the inner 'monster' born from fear, shame, or self-doubt can be transformed through love, acceptance or having someone safe to talk to.
Children can begin to understand their monster and move from an unnamed, frightening inner experience towards something that can be represented in words and pictures and therefore shared with another person. This reassuring and empowering story encourages children to embrace their feelings with curiosity, compassion and confidence.
When a little monster makes you feel sad, shy or worried, it can seem enormous.
Sybille Sparke is a debut author with an interest in the powerful feelings children can experience before they have the words to describe them. She believes stories can offer children a safe space from which to explore emotions that may otherwise feel frightening, confusing or overwhelming.
More About the AuthorA gentle bedtime read for little ones learning to name and befriend their biggest feelings.