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Hector's Favorite Place
Hector loves his home! It's comfy, snuggly, and safe. But sometimes Hector relies on the safety of his home too much--he's invited to play outside with his friends, but he worries about the potential problems he might encounter. Soon Hector realizes that his worries are keeping him from enjoying himself, so he needs to learn to be brave and try new things. Includes a "Note to Parents and Caregivers" about encouraging kids to step outside their comfort zones.
32 pages, Hardcover
Published August 13, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
December 18, 2018
5★
“But then Hector began to worry.
. . . He worried about the music.
What if it’s too loud?’ he thought.
He worried about the dancing.
‘What if I can’t dance?’ he thought.
. . . ‘I will have to say I’m too busy to go,’ sighed Hector, and he decided to go to bed.”
Hector is the most delightful little hedgehog, snuggled under his blanket on the couch with a cup of tea and a book. Perfect, right? Well, yes, as far as that goes. But when friends try to entice him outside to do things, he hesitates.
The words are simple and would make good dialogue for kids to read aloud. The artwork is appealing and colourful.
Of course it has a happy ending – it’s a children’s picture book! The author is hardly going to turn this happy little hedgehog into a hermit, is she?
This is published by the American Psychological Association, and as with Rooks’s previous book about feelings, A Box of Butterflies, (reviewed here with illustrations: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...), there is a long professional afterword for adults and teachers, explaining strategies to use for children with anxiety and similar conditions.
“Julia Martin Burch, PhD, is a staff psychologist at the McLean Anxiety Mastery Program at McLean Hospital in Boston. Dr. Martin Burch completed her training at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. She works with children, teens, and parents, and specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, obsessive compulsive, and related disorders.”
This is another of those books that should be in every school or location where young children may be needing some help. Even adults will enjoy it. [I’m a lot like Hector, except I’m just a “sociable recluse” rather than a worrier. But sometimes, many of us need a gentle prompt. My dad used to say things like “You’re going to enjoy yourself whether you like it or not!” And he was usually right.]
Many thanks to NetGalley and the APA and the author for the preview from which I’ve copied these screenshots. #HectorsFavoritePlace #NetGalley
Hector happy at home
Hector invited to play in the snow but too worried about getting the flu
Hector anxiously talking himself out of a party invitation
Hector, a happy little hedgehog having fun with friends!
“But then Hector began to worry.
. . . He worried about the music.
What if it’s too loud?’ he thought.
He worried about the dancing.
‘What if I can’t dance?’ he thought.
. . . ‘I will have to say I’m too busy to go,’ sighed Hector, and he decided to go to bed.”
Hector is the most delightful little hedgehog, snuggled under his blanket on the couch with a cup of tea and a book. Perfect, right? Well, yes, as far as that goes. But when friends try to entice him outside to do things, he hesitates.
The words are simple and would make good dialogue for kids to read aloud. The artwork is appealing and colourful.
Of course it has a happy ending – it’s a children’s picture book! The author is hardly going to turn this happy little hedgehog into a hermit, is she?
This is published by the American Psychological Association, and as with Rooks’s previous book about feelings, A Box of Butterflies, (reviewed here with illustrations: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...), there is a long professional afterword for adults and teachers, explaining strategies to use for children with anxiety and similar conditions.
“Julia Martin Burch, PhD, is a staff psychologist at the McLean Anxiety Mastery Program at McLean Hospital in Boston. Dr. Martin Burch completed her training at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. She works with children, teens, and parents, and specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, obsessive compulsive, and related disorders.”
This is another of those books that should be in every school or location where young children may be needing some help. Even adults will enjoy it. [I’m a lot like Hector, except I’m just a “sociable recluse” rather than a worrier. But sometimes, many of us need a gentle prompt. My dad used to say things like “You’re going to enjoy yourself whether you like it or not!” And he was usually right.]
Many thanks to NetGalley and the APA and the author for the preview from which I’ve copied these screenshots. #HectorsFavoritePlace #NetGalley
Hector happy at home
Hector invited to play in the snow but too worried about getting the flu
Hector anxiously talking himself out of a party invitation
Hector, a happy little hedgehog having fun with friends!
August 13, 2018
Hector's Favorite Place is a cute little tale about Hector, a hedgehog who worries. The story shows us how Hector misses out on doing some things he loves because he's too worried about unlikely (or easily managed) problems that might happen.
One day Hector decides to be brave and slowly eases into enjoying himself at a party. Jo Rooks has written a practical story with sweet little pictures that will be enjoyed by most little ones -- even those who don't worry too much. This would be an ideal companion story to read with Me And My Fear.
To me, though, the resources for caregivers section at the back of the book was what really elevated this book into a must-have for any adult trying to help a worrier be less worried. There is some excellent advice offered in a very readable format.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with this free electronic ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One day Hector decides to be brave and slowly eases into enjoying himself at a party. Jo Rooks has written a practical story with sweet little pictures that will be enjoyed by most little ones -- even those who don't worry too much. This would be an ideal companion story to read with Me And My Fear.
To me, though, the resources for caregivers section at the back of the book was what really elevated this book into a must-have for any adult trying to help a worrier be less worried. There is some excellent advice offered in a very readable format.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with this free electronic ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2018
Hector’s favourite place is the same as mine - home. Both of our homes have books in them so why would we want to leave?! Well, actually Hector is a worrier and that’s why he’s most comfortable at home. He likes to hear about his friends’ news and wants to do fun things with them but there’s always a ‘what if’ that stands in the way of him venturing into the great outdoors.
The illustrations are cute and by using animals rather than people to tell the story I was more engaged. I love books that help kids gain confidence and hope this story helps some worriers to be brave like Hector.
At the end of the story there are ‘Notes to Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals’. This was a highlight for me as it includes practical tools for adults who are in a position to make a positive impact on anxious children. Information is provided under the following headings:
* Address the worry (if you can)
* Model and practice
* Try something new
* Resist reassurance seeking
* Praise effort and bravery, and
* Seek support.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Magination Press, an imprint of the American Psychological Association, for the opportunity to read this book.
Hector knew deep down that his worries were stopping him from going and enjoying himself. He realized he had to be brave.Hector learns that once he’s outside of his comfort zone most of the things he was worried about didn’t happen after all and those that did weren’t as bad as he thought they’d be. Hector becomes more confident, knowing he can have fun with his friends, and looks forward to spending more time with them. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my books, but that’s not the point.
The illustrations are cute and by using animals rather than people to tell the story I was more engaged. I love books that help kids gain confidence and hope this story helps some worriers to be brave like Hector.
At the end of the story there are ‘Notes to Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals’. This was a highlight for me as it includes practical tools for adults who are in a position to make a positive impact on anxious children. Information is provided under the following headings:
* Address the worry (if you can)
* Model and practice
* Try something new
* Resist reassurance seeking
* Praise effort and bravery, and
* Seek support.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Magination Press, an imprint of the American Psychological Association, for the opportunity to read this book.
May 23, 2018
Really a great book that explain in a simple way what a social anxiety can be, how it appears and how you keep make it stronger by choosing what you choose. Easy way to talk about a difficult subject with the young ones!! Well done!
September 11, 2018
Hector's favorite place is at home. He likes his books and his stuff. He knows he is safe there. Hector is a worrier. He likes to hear about his friends’ news and wants to do fun things with them but there’s always a "what if" that stands in the way of him joining in with their outside fun. The more Hector missed out, the more he realized that he had to be brave and try new things. Having a grandchild with anxiety issues, it is not that easy, but this is a great book to open a discussion about what Hector could do. Hector learns that once he’s outside of his comfort zone most of the things he was worried about didn’t happen. Hector becomes more confident, knowing he can have fun with his friends, and looks forward to spending more time with them.
The illustrations are cute and by using animals rather than people to tell the story my grandson was engaged and more verbal about what Hector needed to do. We talked about what would you do if you were Hector, and he was able to verbalize some solutions that would work in his own life, like having his parents go with him. At the end of the story there are ‘Notes to Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals’. This is a good addition to the book as it provides practical suggestions for adults who are in a position to make a positive impact on anxious children. Some of the topics are: Address the worry, Model & Practise, Praise effort ....
All children have a certain amount of worry and anxious feelings about new things, so this book could be read to a group of children or individuals before a new activity to head off tears or foot dragging. A great addition to family libraries where a child has anxiety issues. The publisher, Magination Press, generously provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
The illustrations are cute and by using animals rather than people to tell the story my grandson was engaged and more verbal about what Hector needed to do. We talked about what would you do if you were Hector, and he was able to verbalize some solutions that would work in his own life, like having his parents go with him. At the end of the story there are ‘Notes to Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals’. This is a good addition to the book as it provides practical suggestions for adults who are in a position to make a positive impact on anxious children. Some of the topics are: Address the worry, Model & Practise, Praise effort ....
All children have a certain amount of worry and anxious feelings about new things, so this book could be read to a group of children or individuals before a new activity to head off tears or foot dragging. A great addition to family libraries where a child has anxiety issues. The publisher, Magination Press, generously provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
August 15, 2022
I got a library card this weekend! This is the first book I checked out. It was really funny and the hedgehog was holding back from having fun because he was worried about a bunch of stuff. Then he started to be brave and went to a party and had so much fun. Then he went home and had two favorite places!
January 14, 2019
Full disclosure: I will read any picture book that has a hedgehog on the cover. I'm obsessed with the spiky little cuties.
This book is wonderful. I thought it would be a simple picture about a cute hedgie that does cute things in his favorite place, but it has a deeper message about anxiety and overcoming your fears. That message is especially important in our society and important for little ones to learn before they become older and have bigger anxiety issues.
It probably sounds like I'm putting a lot on this little picture book, but it is an excellent read with a great message for little ones and not-so-little ones alike.
This book is wonderful. I thought it would be a simple picture about a cute hedgie that does cute things in his favorite place, but it has a deeper message about anxiety and overcoming your fears. That message is especially important in our society and important for little ones to learn before they become older and have bigger anxiety issues.
It probably sounds like I'm putting a lot on this little picture book, but it is an excellent read with a great message for little ones and not-so-little ones alike.
October 14, 2019
Hector's favorite place is home, in a comfy chair with his book and hot drink. Why else would he want to be anywhere else? One day, a friend knocks on his door and wants him to play, but all hector can do is worry about what could happen while he is out. A story about overcoming worry and what it means to be brave!
#Edelweiss
#Edelweiss
January 20, 2024
4.5/5 stars. This book delicately tells the story of a hedgehog who likes to stay home. The book honors who he is while also showing that it’s ok to venture out once in a while. Lightly touches on anxious thoughts in a kid-friendly manner. Recommend for any little introverts or worriers in your life.
October 11, 2018
Like many introverts, Hector the Hedgehog’s favorite place is home. In his cozy and safe house, Hector can read, snuggle in bed, play the piano, and paint. However, Hector also has a lot of kind and fun friends who want to play in the snow, ice skate, and attend winter bashes. Although all of these suggestions excite Hector, his mind starts buzzing with worries. What if the hot chocolate is too hot? What if he forgot how to skate and falls, and what if he catches the flu? OMG, WHAT IF?!
You can find the full review on The Uncorked Librarian here: http://bit.ly/UncorkedMentalHealthPic...
You can find the full review on The Uncorked Librarian here: http://bit.ly/UncorkedMentalHealthPic...
April 4, 2022
For the little worriers out there who don't like leaving the comfort of their homes. Cute illustrations. Maybe a little oversimplified- but a good tool to see another little worrier overcome their fears and have a great time.
July 16, 2019
This precious hedgehog is a happy homebody, but too anxious to go out with friends. He wants to go, but worries about every little thing — will he get lost to a party, where the hot chocolate might be too hot, the music too loud, or he might forget how to dance? But he talks himself into going, despite his fears, and has a blast. “All of a sudden, Hector realized that his feet were tapping ... his prickles were swaying (😁) ... and before he knew it ... he was dancing!” Beautifully illustrated with an important message about facing down fears. Includes a section for adults with simple tips for helping children manage anxiety. Highly recommended for littles and big-gins alike!
Grateful to NetGalley, the American Psychological Association and Magination Press for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#Hector'sFavoritePlace #NetGalley
Grateful to NetGalley, the American Psychological Association and Magination Press for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#Hector'sFavoritePlace #NetGalley
May 6, 2020
A sweet, gentle story about learning to be brave and try new things. A great story to share with children who might be having a difficult time stepping outside of their comfort zones and engaging in new ways.
September 18, 2018
Hector's Favorite Place is a sweet, gentle story about overcoming your anxiety and learning to cope with worry. Hector is an anxious hedgehog who prefers to stay safe at home rather than to go out with his friends and risk the dangers he may face in the outside world. When Hector realizes that his worries are keeping him from having fun, though, he decides to be brave and go out with his friends despite his anxiety. With adorable illustrations and a charming story, Jo Rooks works childhood coping mechanisms into a highly enjoyable tale about friendship and bravery.
Rooks's delightful illustrations are filled with hilarious details, and Hector and his little bowtie are so endearing that readers will be hooked from the first image. Hector has several moments of self-doubt, even making up excuses so that he won't have to go out with his friends, and each moment is a wonderful opportunity to stop and discuss what is going on and talk about how young readers may feel just as anxious as Hector at times. With the sweet, cute Hector as the main character, young readers will stay engaged and won't feel as intimidated talking about topics as potentially scary as the things that worry them the most.
Hector also has moments of triumph where he works through his anxiety in a healthy way. Kids will love celebrating with Hector, which will make these excellent opportunities to talk to them about trying hard to push past their own worries and be brave themselves. The "Note to Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals" in the back of the book from a licensed psychologist is incredibly helpful and gives great concrete advice on how to discuss these issues.
I wish I had been able to read this book as a child. Not only would I have loved the story of a dancing, ice-skating, hot-chocolate-loving hedgehog, but I would have really benefited from a book that taught me in a relatable and entertaining way how to deal with the constant worries in my head.
I highly recommend this book to all parents, teachers, and librarians, not just to those who know that they're dealing with anxious children. Take it from me — you won't always know which of your kids are dealing with worrisome thoughts, because some of them are quite skilled at hiding them. And even if you're not worried about...well, worry...then you still can't go wrong with an adorable storybook with a hedgehog hero learning a wonderful lesson about being brave and believing in himself.
My thanks to Magination Press and Edelweiss+ for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rooks's delightful illustrations are filled with hilarious details, and Hector and his little bowtie are so endearing that readers will be hooked from the first image. Hector has several moments of self-doubt, even making up excuses so that he won't have to go out with his friends, and each moment is a wonderful opportunity to stop and discuss what is going on and talk about how young readers may feel just as anxious as Hector at times. With the sweet, cute Hector as the main character, young readers will stay engaged and won't feel as intimidated talking about topics as potentially scary as the things that worry them the most.
Hector also has moments of triumph where he works through his anxiety in a healthy way. Kids will love celebrating with Hector, which will make these excellent opportunities to talk to them about trying hard to push past their own worries and be brave themselves. The "Note to Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals" in the back of the book from a licensed psychologist is incredibly helpful and gives great concrete advice on how to discuss these issues.
I wish I had been able to read this book as a child. Not only would I have loved the story of a dancing, ice-skating, hot-chocolate-loving hedgehog, but I would have really benefited from a book that taught me in a relatable and entertaining way how to deal with the constant worries in my head.
I highly recommend this book to all parents, teachers, and librarians, not just to those who know that they're dealing with anxious children. Take it from me — you won't always know which of your kids are dealing with worrisome thoughts, because some of them are quite skilled at hiding them. And even if you're not worried about...well, worry...then you still can't go wrong with an adorable storybook with a hedgehog hero learning a wonderful lesson about being brave and believing in himself.
My thanks to Magination Press and Edelweiss+ for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2018
First of all let me say I love the little character Hector. He is just a darling little hedgehog. Hector prefers to stay in his comfy home doing all the things he loves: reading books quietly, playing his piano softly, painting lovely abstracts on canvas, and of course, eating the delicious meals that he himself prepares. Inside his home he feels safe and cozy and has no trouble whatsoever keeping himself busy.
When he gets offers to go out and join his friends for a walk in the forest on the first snowy day, or skate on the frozen pond, that's when worry starts nibbling at him. At first he's excited and wants to go but then he starts thinks about all the negative "what if"s" if he leaves his home, and then sadly his anxieties totally take over and Hector declines the invitations.
Then one day Hector has a Eureka moment. He acknowledges that his worries are holding him back from enjoying his life to the fullest and he's missing out on many adventures and opportunities for fun that are offered to him.
He bravely accepts an invitation to the Winter Forest Party and in so doing his life drastically changes for the better. The beautiful, vibrantly coloured illustrations are full of emotion and heart and perfectly tie in with the message of facing down fears and moving forward with your life in a positive manner. The book includes a portion for adults with tips to help children manage their worries and with support overcome them. I highly recommend this book.
When he gets offers to go out and join his friends for a walk in the forest on the first snowy day, or skate on the frozen pond, that's when worry starts nibbling at him. At first he's excited and wants to go but then he starts thinks about all the negative "what if"s" if he leaves his home, and then sadly his anxieties totally take over and Hector declines the invitations.
Then one day Hector has a Eureka moment. He acknowledges that his worries are holding him back from enjoying his life to the fullest and he's missing out on many adventures and opportunities for fun that are offered to him.
He bravely accepts an invitation to the Winter Forest Party and in so doing his life drastically changes for the better. The beautiful, vibrantly coloured illustrations are full of emotion and heart and perfectly tie in with the message of facing down fears and moving forward with your life in a positive manner. The book includes a portion for adults with tips to help children manage their worries and with support overcome them. I highly recommend this book.
August 26, 2018
This is a delightful story about anxiety that children will want to hear over and over again. I hope that parents, teachers, psychologists, and counselors will read the dedication before starting the story: "To all the little worriers out there... myself included!"
Hector worries, but he also wants to engage with his friends in the world and is reflective about his worries. He also has the capacity to imagine himself doing something different, and this may be the most powerful lesson in the story.
The illustrations are fun, and the use of language absolutely tickled me (e.g., "Jumping June bugs" and "Hopping honeybees!").
As a psychologist, I plan on getting this one for my child-centered therapy practice.
Thanks to NetGalleys for the opportunity to read this one before it comes out.
Hector worries, but he also wants to engage with his friends in the world and is reflective about his worries. He also has the capacity to imagine himself doing something different, and this may be the most powerful lesson in the story.
The illustrations are fun, and the use of language absolutely tickled me (e.g., "Jumping June bugs" and "Hopping honeybees!").
As a psychologist, I plan on getting this one for my child-centered therapy practice.
Thanks to NetGalleys for the opportunity to read this one before it comes out.
August 6, 2018
This bright, engaging picture book is an excellent starting point for children to talk about worries and anxieties.
Hector is a hedgehog, and a worrier. He loves his safe, comfortable home and when invited to do exciting, winter activities by his friends (skating and making huge footprints in the snow) he loves the idea, but needs to finish everything at home.
Then he's invited to a party. He worries about everything that could happen there, and barely sleeps. Then he decides he needs to be brave and face his fears.
This is a brilliant story for talk to children about their worries and how they can face them if they're brave.
Many thanks to the publishers for the opportunity to read this book via NetGalley.
Hector is a hedgehog, and a worrier. He loves his safe, comfortable home and when invited to do exciting, winter activities by his friends (skating and making huge footprints in the snow) he loves the idea, but needs to finish everything at home.
Then he's invited to a party. He worries about everything that could happen there, and barely sleeps. Then he decides he needs to be brave and face his fears.
This is a brilliant story for talk to children about their worries and how they can face them if they're brave.
Many thanks to the publishers for the opportunity to read this book via NetGalley.
October 28, 2020
Hector the hedgehog was at his favorite place-snuggled in at home. Archie the squirrel comes to the door and invites hector to go for a walk in the snow. hector worried that he might get cold and catch the flu, so he turns down archie's offer. Rabbit invites him to go ice skating, and hector worries about it and he turns him down. Hector is invited to a winter party and he wants to go, but worries about different things. hector knows that he has to be brave and he goes to the party. he dances, and drinks hot chocolate, and ice skates. If he fell over, he would just curl into a ball to avoid being hurt. hector has a great time and asks his friends what they should do tomorrow. helpful hints in the back of the book for kids who are nervous.
May 22, 2018
Oh, this was good! I've know a worry wort child or two over the years and this book would have been lovely to have had. Hector hedgehogs favorite place is his home. It's comfy and safe and it has everything he needs init. So why leave to go places? His friends invite him to go hiking in the snow, ice skating and to a party. Will Hector go??? He used to love doing those things! Now worries are getting in the way of enjoying a full life. Illustrations were lovely and I can't wait to see them in color in a book! Nice addition to any collection!
I received a Kindle ARC in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
I received a Kindle ARC in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
February 16, 2019
This is part of a clearly aimed bibliotherapy series, and I wish I'd known that when I ordered it.
The art is cute, the animals remind me of the characters in the old Czech children's films about Mole.
Here's my advice to parents: books only go so far. The advice is the best part of this book, use it. But instead of this, read your child Wemberly Worried or Scaredy Squirrel, books by authors with sensitivity who are still able to tell a story. And then apply the advice.
The art is cute, the animals remind me of the characters in the old Czech children's films about Mole.
Here's my advice to parents: books only go so far. The advice is the best part of this book, use it. But instead of this, read your child Wemberly Worried or Scaredy Squirrel, books by authors with sensitivity who are still able to tell a story. And then apply the advice.
April 14, 2023
This was a great book! Hector loves being home and enjoying his familiar routine. When his friend invites him to go play in the snow, his first reaction is to be excited, but then the worries crumple in and he needs to cancel. One day, he decides to be brave enough to attempt a special event and learns that by enjoying himself with his friends, his worries little by little go away. The illustrations are charming and the text is well narrated. I highly recommend it!
Thank you NetGalley and the American Psychological Association for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Read and reviewed: 2018-12-06
Thank you NetGalley and the American Psychological Association for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Read and reviewed: 2018-12-06
September 20, 2023
Hector's Favorite Place By Jo Rooks
Fiction, Social interactions, Second/Third
Hector loves to be home, but sometimes he is too dependent on his home. Hector's friends invite him to play outside, but his worries get in the way. As the day passes Hector realizes that his worries are getting in the way of him having fun with friends. Hector will learn to overcome his fears and step outside his comfort zone.
This book would be great for a reading lesson because it encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and experience new memories with friends. The TEKS used in this lesson plan would be ELA. 3.1.E & ELA 3.13.E
Fiction, Social interactions, Second/Third
Hector loves to be home, but sometimes he is too dependent on his home. Hector's friends invite him to play outside, but his worries get in the way. As the day passes Hector realizes that his worries are getting in the way of him having fun with friends. Hector will learn to overcome his fears and step outside his comfort zone.
This book would be great for a reading lesson because it encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and experience new memories with friends. The TEKS used in this lesson plan would be ELA. 3.1.E & ELA 3.13.E
July 17, 2018
*I received an e-galley from Netgalley in return for an honest review.*
Hector is a worrier. He worries about being too cold, about falling down, and other things if he leaves his house. This causes him to not do things with his friends. Until he gets an invitation to a party and he decides to be brave and go. Author includes notes for parents, teachers, and caregivers about how to help children that struggle with leaving safe zones and how to address the worry, model and practice, try something new, resist reassurance seeking, praise effort and bravery, and seek support.
Hector is a worrier. He worries about being too cold, about falling down, and other things if he leaves his house. This causes him to not do things with his friends. Until he gets an invitation to a party and he decides to be brave and go. Author includes notes for parents, teachers, and caregivers about how to help children that struggle with leaving safe zones and how to address the worry, model and practice, try something new, resist reassurance seeking, praise effort and bravery, and seek support.
November 18, 2018
I received this book from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review
Hector is a hedgehog who loves his house so much, he worries about going out and began making excuses to avoid it. One day, he decided to be brave and venture outside.
Sounds familiar? Yes to me. This is such a cute and sweet story of Hector, perfect for a homebody like me. At the end of the book, there's a guide by psychologist to guide your children in taking daily risk. I highly recommend this to everyone, not only because of its heartwarming story, but also the message behind it.
Hector is a hedgehog who loves his house so much, he worries about going out and began making excuses to avoid it. One day, he decided to be brave and venture outside.
Sounds familiar? Yes to me. This is such a cute and sweet story of Hector, perfect for a homebody like me. At the end of the book, there's a guide by psychologist to guide your children in taking daily risk. I highly recommend this to everyone, not only because of its heartwarming story, but also the message behind it.
December 20, 2018
If you have a young friend (or not-so-young friend) who struggles with anxiety, this is a sweet and encouraging book for you to share (or maybe...that friend is you). Hector loves his home--which is great! But he keeps getting friendly invitations where he's initially excited to go hang out with friends to do something fun..but with every invitation he's plagued with, "What if?" His What Ifs keep him from enjoying activities he used to really enjoy. In a sensitive and engaging way, Hector explores his fears and anxieties and cautiously works to overcome them.
September 4, 2018
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy.*
This was a great book about social anxiety and being nervous in new situations. Hector is super cute as are all his friends.
I really like that there is a section after for parents and teachers about how to help a child deal with extreme nervousness in new situations.
This was a great book about social anxiety and being nervous in new situations. Hector is super cute as are all his friends.
I really like that there is a section after for parents and teachers about how to help a child deal with extreme nervousness in new situations.
Read
April 20, 2020I thought this book was an excellent way to describe anxiety without actually stating the word anxiety. I really liked how this book approaches that our feelings are valuable but sometimes we need to be able to get up and do something that pushes us. I would use this book in my classroom to start a conversation about our worries.
Read
April 21, 2020I felt this book was a perfect way to explain fear by just using the term fear. I always enjoyed the way this novel addresses that our emotions are important, but also we need to be ready to stand up and do everything that drives us. I'd use this book in my classroom to launch a dialogue regarding our issues.
May 22, 2025
I definitely believe in anxiety as a mental illness. I experienced it and ultimately wound up hospitalized because of it. But sometimes I wonder if we gear these books at kids and put ideas in their heads that they wouldn't have thought of otherwise. Why not just write a book about a hedgehog going to a party.
June 18, 2020
I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Yes. This book is great at explaining social anxiety (and really just anxiety). I think it breaks it down in a way kids can understand. The pictures are great too.
Yes. This book is great at explaining social anxiety (and really just anxiety). I think it breaks it down in a way kids can understand. The pictures are great too.
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