Ups and Downs: A Book of Emotions - by Mike Wohnoutka

Book Synopsis

"Young readers will feel good about this book that mirrors everyday experiences." --Kirkus Reviews

From delight to disgust, excitement to fear, worry to confidence, boredom to curiosity, feelings can shift in a heartbeat. Mike Wohnoutka's simple words and tender, nuanced illustrations follow three young children as they traverse emotional highs and lows over the course of a school day. The wide spectrum of emotions covered--far beyond happy and sad--invites readers to share their own contradictory, unpredictable, ever-present feelings. Vetted by an expert in the science of children's emotions, this day in the inner life of three kids encourages first steps toward emotional literacy and is a satisfying narrative that ends with the adorable trio converging after school in the park--ready for play!

Review Quotes

Children will feel reassured to have their own emotions validated, perhaps under circumstances they've experienced, and to note that the book ends happily. The soft gouache illustrations are comforting; occasional onomatopoeic words add dramatic interest to scenes. . . . Young readers will feel good about this book that mirrors everyday experiences.
--Kirkus Reviews

The text, primarily a series of descriptive, somewhat sophisticated single words, is expanded by gouache illustrations that humorously and thoughtfully convey the story.
--Booklist

This very simple book is illustrated with [Wohnoutka's] trademark fun and funny gouache paintings, with no more than one or two words on each page. It's perfect for very young children, who will identify -- and sympathize -- with the rapidly changing emotions of the characters.
--The Star Tribune

About the Author

Mike Wohnoutka is the author-illustrator of So Big!, the Croc & Turtle books, and Dad's First Day. He has illustrated more than thirty acclaimed books for children, including the Geisel Award winner See the Cat: Three Stories About a Dog and its sequels, as well as How to Apologize, all written by David LaRochelle. Mike Wohnoutka lives in Minnesota.