Welcome to the very first episode of The Brave Bookshelf Podcast! Today, Kim explores one of the most common emotional challenges kids face: anxiety. Whether it shows up as stomachaches, fear of school, perfectionism, or the classic “koala cling,” anxiety can be tough for kids to explain — and even tougher for adults to decode.
That’s where books come in.
This episode highlights the powerhouse workbook What to Do When You Worry Too Much by Dr. Dawn Huebner, a clinical psychologist with 30+ years of experience helping kids understand and manage big feelings. Kim explains why this book is so effective, how to use it at home or in the classroom, and how story-driven tools empower kids to talk about their worries in a safe and approachable way.
Kim also shares a carefully curated anxiety book list featuring:
Scaredy Squirrel
Wemberly Worried
After the Fall
Some Kind of Happiness
The List of Unspeakable Fears
Turtles All the Way Down
I Wish You All the Best
Inside this episode, you’ll find:
• Practical anxiety strategies for adults
• Conversation questions for kids
• Tips for using books therapeutically
• A downloadable PDF book list in the show notes
If you’re a parent, teacher, librarian, counselor, or anyone who supports young readers, this episode offers a gentle, accessible guide to starting brave conversations about worry and emotional health.
Resources:
For all the resources mentioned in the episode, click here.
Music credit: Anxiety by Mindme from epidemicsound.com
DISCLAIMER:
The Brave Bookshelf Podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are based on personal experience and independent research and do not constitute medical, psychological, or professional advice. Listening to this podcast does not establish a professional relationship. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider, therapist, or licensed professional with any questions regarding mental health, emotional well-being, or developmental concerns.
