A gentle, comforting story about sadness and the simple things children can do to navigate and work through this confusing, sometimes scary, emotion.

Sammy has lots of unhappy thoughts, and he?s not sure why. Instead of playing and laughing, he just feels different inside. He wears a frown, and he keeps his eyes cast down.

Seeing his best pal looking all out of sorts, Ollie tries to help. He offers kindness and different types of support. Ollie asks Sammy if a hug would help. When Sammy says it might, Ollie squeezes him tight. The hug makes Sammy feel a bit better, but something is still not quite right.

Together, the boys explore more ways to lift Sammy?s spirits. They do creative activities like writing and drawing. They think about fun things and happy memories. They take a moment and do slow, deep breaths, and they spend time enjoying the great outdoors. Step by step, and with his friend?s help, Sammy is able to find a way to turn his sadness into smiles.

Debut author Carol Miller uses rhyme and vivid illustrations to remind young readers it is okay to feel sad, while also revealing the healthy steps kids can take to improve their mood, including deep breathing, writing and drawing, and exercising.

Written for ages 4 to 8, Sammy?s Sad Day is more than one child?s journey through sadness; it is a story of friendship, empathy, and the power of emotional resilience.

A special page for parents and educators features additional tips and strategies to help kids deal with challenging and difficult emotions.