Don't worry little crab by Chris Haughton

I write this in the midst of a pandemic, as we shelter at home, the library (and almost everything else) being closed. The title of this book sounds just perfect - lots of people are telling kids not to worry right now - but as you go deeper into the story it's much more than just an anti-anxiety book.

Little Crab, a blocky creature in bright oranges and purples, lives with Very Big Crab in a safe little tidal pool. When they decide to visit the ocean, Little Crab is at first excited. They go "Tic-a-tic" over rocks, "splish splash" through pools, and "squelch squelch squelch" through seaweed. But when they get to the ocean... it's a LOT bigger than Little Crab expected. And there are huge waves! Little Crab wavers and suggests going home, but with the firm support of Very Big Crab manages to hang on and finally to explore the ocean floor. In the end, having conquered the waves and their fears, "I think you can go anywhere," says Very Big Crab.

Haughton's blocky, vibrant colors show lots of rich blues, bright oranges, and menacing dark waves with frothy crests. Readers will hold their breath and chant along as Little Crab works through fear to have a new and exciting experience.

Encouraging children to face new and sometimes frightening experiences may sound irrelevant at this time when we're encouraging everyone to stay home, but with a little adult guidance kids may be able to see that new experiences aren't just things you go out and do; they can be, well, things you experience. Kids and their families are facing lots of scary changes right now, from school closings to parents losing jobs, but the warm community of this story and the gentle encouragement of Very Big Crab will encourage them to stand firm. The waves may still break over them, but there's hope of an amazing sea floor beyond.

Verdict: The rhythmic refrain makes this a lovely read-aloud for young children and the storyline a comforting choice for older kids facing many new changes and experiences. Highly recommended.

ISBN: 9781536211191; Published April 2020 by Candlewick; Review copy provided by publisher and donated to the library; Used in activity calendars and online storytimes.