Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those rare picture books that actually does what it promises—it gives very young children a framework to understand the confusing soup of feelings happening inside them. The die-cut heart gimmick isn't just cute; it's a visual anchor that helps kids connect the abstract concept of emotions to something concrete.

The 4.9 Amazon rating isn't inflated—parents genuinely report that their kids ask for this one again and again, and that it helps during meltdowns. The book treats difficult emotions like anger and sadness with the same gentle respect as happiness, which is exactly what toddlers need to hear: all feelings are okay, and they all have names.

The deluxe edition (2024 release) is essentially the same beloved 2014 book in fancier packaging with foil and a slipcase, which is fine—it was already a modern classic. If you're building an emotional literacy library for young kids, this belongs on the shelf next to The Color Monster. It's not flashy or overly entertaining, but it's genuinely useful and kids connect with it.

Age Fit

Perfect for ages 2-6, especially during the toddler and preschool years when kids are just learning to identify and name their emotions. The simple text and beautiful illustrations work for the youngest listeners, while the concepts remain valuable through early elementary for emotional development.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

95

Validates all emotions without judgment, teaching that feelings like sadness, anger, and shyness are as normal as happiness. Uses gentle, lyrical language and whimsical illustrations to normalize the full emotional spectrum. Models emotional intelligence and self-awareness in an age-appropriate, non-chaotic way.

Imaginative

88

The die-cut heart feature that extends through each spread is a tactile, interactive design element that invites exploration. Metaphorical descriptions (feeling 'light as a balloon' or 'heavy as an elephant') encourage abstract thinking. The whimsical illustrations spark visual imagination, though it's more contemplative than actively creative.

Safe

98

Zero concerning content. This is a picture book designed specifically for toddlers and young children to understand emotions. No scary imagery, no potentially triggering content, no surprises. The deluxe edition adds foil and die-cut features but maintains the same gentle approach. Multiple parent reviews confirm it's appropriate and calming.

Enriching

92

Builds critical emotional literacy skills by giving children vocabulary to identify and articulate their feelings. Empowers kids to recognize that emotions have physical sensations ('inside'). This is foundational social-emotional learning that supports empathy, self-regulation, and communication. The 4.9 Amazon rating and widespread parent praise confirm its educational value and entertainment appeal.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Gives toddlers the vocabulary to say 'I feel brave' or 'I feel sad' instead of just melting down—this is the emotional literacy foundation
The die-cut heart that runs through every page is genuinely clever and keeps little hands engaged while you read
Doesn't sugarcoat difficult feelings—anger, sadness, and shyness get the same respectful treatment as happiness and bravery
Lyrical but direct language that doesn't talk down to kids, with spot-on physical descriptions of how emotions actually feel
The deluxe edition with foil accents and slipcase makes it a legitimately beautiful gift that doesn't feel cheap

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What to Watch For

This is really aimed at the 2-5 year old sweet spot—older kids may find it too simple unless they're working through specific emotional regulation challenges
It's a read-to book, not an independent reader, so plan for this to be a snuggle-up storytime staple

Conversation Starters

"What does it feel like in your body when you're happy? Where do you feel it?"
"Have you ever felt brave like the book describes? What were you doing?"
"Is it okay to feel sad sometimes? What helps you when you're feeling that heavy elephant feeling?"
"Which feeling from the book did you feel today?"

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In My Heart: A Book of Feelings