About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is struggling with the transition from the classroom to the unstructured environment of recess, particularly if they have difficulty being a good sport. It is a practical resource for children who get overly competitive, feel the sting of losing too intensely, or have trouble following playground rules. The story follows Max and Zoe during a game of kickball where Max's frustration leads to poor choices and hurt feelings. This early chapter book is perfect for 5 to 7 year olds because it uses relatable school scenarios to model how to handle anger and the importance of making an apology. Parents will appreciate how it validates the feeling of frustration while clearly showing that lashing out at friends has consequences. It provides a roadmap for repairing friendships and moving past a bad moment on the playground.
