Reviews
“Anxiety is the most common - and most treatable - of all childhood developmental disorders. But how to help? First, we need to validate a worried child's emotions by giving these feelings a name. Second, we need to convey optimism in the child's ability to control their anxiety. In her warm and readable book, Gary and Gibby’s Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries, author Tina Rafowitz does both. In the book, an anxious boy and an anxious dog help each other through some commonly stressful situations. It provides just the right balance of understanding and hope. As a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, I enthusiastically recommend it.”
- Dan Shapiro, M.D., Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician
“Tina Rafowitz has written a relatable, heartwarming story about a young boy who struggles with excessive worries in ‘Gary and Gibby’s Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries.’ Gary helps his new puppy, Gibby, with his anxiety, and during this process builds his own confidence in managing his own anxiety. The story provides and important message that everyone has struggles but you can overcome them and learn ways to cope. A great read for children who have anxiety.”
-In-Lin Tuan, MD, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
“As a 2nd grade teacher, I highly recommend ‘Gary and Gibby’s Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries,’ by Tina Rafowitz. This heartwarming chapter book offers students a character that they can relate to and provides wonderful examples of how to cope with their worries in everyday life. This book would be a great tool for teachers to utilize during social emotional learning and lessons on how to cope with anxiety.”
-Meredith Bosley, 2nd Grade Teacher, Western Hills Elementary, Des Moines, IA
“Gary and Gibby are a charming duo who are sorely needed in these uncertain times. Thanks to Tina Rafowitz, teachers and parents now have a useful tool for helping their kids who suffer from anxiety and worry; a simple story with simple language, perfect for emergent readers, that shows kids that what they’re feeling is not unusual and can be successfully managed with the help of caring adults (and also lovable puppies).”
-Kristin Nilsen, Library Advocate and author of Worldwide Crush, a novel for young readers.
“This book about an anxious young boy and his fearful new puppy is tender, reassuring, and heartwarming!
It's a testament to the ways in which we can all benefit from nurturing each other through the ups and downs of an uncertain world. It reminds us that perhaps the needs of humans and animals aren't as dissimilar as we think, and we're more alike than different. An endearing read for both children and their parents!”
- Rachel Allyn, PhD, Licensed Psychologist
“Gary is at the end of kindergarten, and he worries. He worries about school. Will he be able to write neatly? What will happen at recess? Will Mom or Dad be at home when he gets off the school bus? He worries about what he’ll do during summer vacation. His mind is “swirling, twirling, whirling” with worries. But, with the help of his family and his commitment to protecting his new buddy Gibby, Gary develops the confidence and skills to face new situations. By the beginning of first grade, Gary has learned a new feeling-excitement!
This lovely story would be a timely addition to any child’s or classroom library. As we become more aware of the need to help children develop the social and emotional skills to manage their questions and concerns, this book offers real ideas and plans for kids and caregivers. The main characters, Gary and his very cute new puppy are relatable and engaging. Through his desire to help Gibby feel safe, Gary learns strategies, resilience and executive functioning skills that will last him a lifetime. The text is perfect for primary students as a read aloud or for those advanced readers, a new chapter book.”
-Sue Shuff, 30+ years in the classroom
Professor, Department of Education, Concordia University