Becky Kennedy

Nothing makes Pia happier than playing secret agents with her brother, Charlie. But when an unexpected stumble interrupts their mission, Pia's body freezes. Her heart pounds, all the feelings inside her start bubbling up, and suddenly, she explodes! Pia is a kid who experiences her emotions with massive intensity. When things feel too big and overwhelming, she puts up a tough, prickly shield and shouts for everyone to leave her alone, even when she secretly needs a hug the most. Written by parenting expert Dr. Becky, this compassionate picture book takes you inside the mind of a kid navigating huge feelings. It shows exactly what happens when emotions take over and how caregivers can become a sturdy, safe base during the storm. With honesty and warmth, this story helps families understand big reactions and find their way back to connection.

Charlie loves his favorite toy truck more than anything else in the playroom. It has the biggest wheels, the brightest paint, and it goes faster than all the other cars! But when his little sister decides she wants to play with it too, Charlie feels a massive wave of frustration bubbling up inside him. Sharing is not always easy, especially when it comes to your absolute favorite toy. As Charlie gets upset and emotions run high, he has to figure out how to handle his big feelings without making the situation worse. With a little bit of patience and some gentle guidance, Charlie learns that playing together might actually be more fun than playing alone. This relatable and comforting story perfectly captures the everyday challenges of sibling dynamics, teaching young readers valuable lessons about boundaries, sharing, and navigating those tricky, overwhelming emotions.