Kid Review – When I Feel Lonely – picture book
Teckentrup, Britta. When I Feel Lonely. New York: Prestel, 2025.
Guide to categories: Kid Review – review of books for elementary-aged and younger children
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Summary
With luminous, evocative illustrations and rhymed texts, this book gently explores the feeling of loneliness through the perspective of a young girl.
In a world where many children, and adults, are grappling with such intense emotions, When I Feel Lonely provides a calm, compassionate and understanding voice, helping young readers to recognize and name their feelings.
This newest book about emotions from a beloved author and illustrator is a powerful and timely exploration of childhood loneliness.
- It acknowledges that, while feeling alone is natural and something everyone experiences, it also conveys how unsettling and scary the sensation can be.
- In her characteristically sensitive style, Teckentrup explores the quiet moments when the world seems distant and we are left grappling with the heavy silence that surrounds us.
- The narrative doesn’t shy away from the intensity of these emotions, instead offering an honest portrayal of how loneliness can feel like an all-encompassing shadow.
The book reassures children that while loneliness can be sad and difficult, it is a part of life that everyone experiences. And best of all it offers a glimmer of hope, showing that even in the darkest moments, there is the possibility of light and connection ahead.
Purchase When I Feel Lonely on Amazon – https://amzn.to/49J5U2v
My Kid Review
When I Feel Lonely is an interesting picture book. It feels more like a literary piece that may appeal more to adults than to children. However, there may be children who will resonate with the story.
I think we have all felt lonely at times. When I Feel Lonely gives voice to some of those feelings. I like the way Teckentrup chose to illustrate the text – a lone child with an animal by his or her side, wandering through the forest. In a way the illustrations tell as much, if not more, of the story as the text does.
When I Feel Lonely could be a stepping stone to a thoughtful discussion about feelings between children and their caregivers.
I would give When I Feel Lonely consideration for inclusion in a K-12 Christian school library. It really is appropriate across the ages.
I received a complimentary copy of When I Feel Lonely. This is my honest review.
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