Superpowered: Transform Anxiety Into Courage, Confidence, and Resilience

Gr 4-7--This book uses the acronym POWER (Present, Original, Whole, Energized, and Resilient) to describe the innate "superpowers" children possess to cope with anxiety, worries, stress, and nerves. Divided into three sections, the text allows readers to identify and deal with negative emotions or situations. The text is supplemented by graphics, engaging illustrations, and real-life examples. Jain and Tsabary divide big ideas into easy-to-understand concepts and solutions, providing solid analogies that children can internalize. There are activities that can be completed directly in the book, strengthening reader comprehension. Each chapter offers "key takeaways," which recap what was covered and prevent information overload. Some readers might find some of the language corny. However, if read with an adult, caretaker, or educator, this title serves as a powerful tool to help those who have a hard time understanding their own feelings and worries. The text addresses the reader directly, which is a great way to drive home the message that anxiety is real, they are not alone, and they are seen and heard. VERDICT A serviceable purchase for upper elementary and middle school libraries; hand a copy to every counselor and school psychologist in the building.--Carol Youssif, Taipei American Sch., Taiwan