This post is sponsored by Bella and Bird Books. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.
MY REVIEW
Anger doesn’t wait politely—it crashes in, loud and hot. That’s exactly what Bella and Bird Explore Anger is about. The story drops kids straight into Henry’s world, where his temper flares until Bella, a wise horse, and Bird appear with a secret path out of the chaos.
When Henry bursts into the pasture, Bella—the wise horse—and her quick-witted companion, Bird, step in to guide him. Together they dig into the roots of Henry’s anger and show him healthier ways to respond. By the time Henry heads out again, he’s calmer, more in control of his feelings, and carrying new strategies he can use beyond the pasture.
This book sits right in the heart of the social-emotional learning (SEL) space, which focuses on helping kids recognize and manage emotions, build healthy relationships, and handle challenges. I love books like this because they don’t just tell a story—they give kids tools for life. SEL may feel new to many of us (I never had it growing up), but today it’s everywhere: by the 2023–24 school year, 83% of U.S. school principals reported their schools were using SEL programs. Books like this show why. Bella and Bird Explore Anger shows kids that while anger may roar, it can always be tamed.
The illustrations are colorful and full of life, while the writing is clear and easy to follow, with short, simple sentences that carry the message naturally. Parents will love it. Teachers will love it. But most of all—kids will see themselves in Henry and leave with the confidence that they can handle their own storms. This story reminds us all: feelings are powerful, but so are we.
GIVEAWAY
Enter for a chance to win one of ten signed hardcover editions of Bella and Bird Explore Anger! One grand prize winner will also take home a unique, handcrafted Bella and Bird book pillow.
Bella and Bird Explore Anger: Book GiveawayABOUT THE BOOK
Written by Deana Plaskon
Illustrated by Lea Marie Ravotti
Ages: 5-10 | 36 Pages
Publisher: Bella and Bird Books (2025) | ISBN: 978-987268-41-4
Publisher’s Book Summary: “Can’t you tell?” said Henry. “This is my angry face!”
When Henry storms into the pasture, Bella, the wise horse, and her wisecracking sidekick, Bird, step in to help. Together, the friends set out to explore why Henry is angry and offer better ways to cope.
By the time Henry leaves the pasture, he’s gained new insights, is in better control of his feelings, and has tools to take along with him.
Bella and Bird Explore Anger helps children understand and manage their anger, making it a valuable resource for open and honest conversations about this challenging emotion.
PURCHASE LINK
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Deana Plaskon is an educator, licensed clinical therapist, mom, and author whose enchanting books entertain and inspire children to embrace, process, and manage big emotions and feelings. With a PhD in Education specializing in human behavior, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a Master’s degree in Education, Deana has a deeply informed yet engaging approach to children’s stories. Her Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers book series is inspired by her real-life therapy horse Bella, and Bella’s friend Bird, the not-so-common barn swallow. Imbued with Bella’s calm, wise presence and Bird’s cheeky humor, these wonderfully unique children’s books are designed to delight and empower school-age children. These books combine three core elements: engaging storytelling, informed exploration of emotional intelligence, and science-based therapeutic tools. Each story captures children’s imaginations while also giving them powerful, practical tools to succeed.
For more information, visit https://bellabirdbooks.com/.
TOUR SCHEDULE
| Monday, September 22, 2025The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Tuesday, September 23, 2025avainbooklandInstagram Post about Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Wednesday, September 24, 2025The Children’s Book ReviewBooklist featuring Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Thursday, September 25, 2025Life Is What It’s CalledInterview with Deana Plaskon, PhD, LMHC |
| Friday, September 26, 2025Country Mamas With KidsBook Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Monday, September 29, 2025The Starlit PathBook Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Tuesday, September 30, 2025Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Wednesday, October 1, 2025The Children’s Book ReviewVideo Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Thursday, October 2, 2025bored_military_wifeInstagram Post about Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Friday, October 3, 2025icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Monday, October 13, 2025The Children’s Book ReviewInterview with Deana Plaskon, PhD, LMHC |
| Tuesday, October 14, 2025@tinks_books_and_fostersInstagram Post about Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Wednesday, October 15, 2025Confessions of a Book AddictBook Spotlight on Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Thursday, October 16, 2025Deliciously SavvyBook Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Friday, October 17, 2025The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Monday, October 20, 2025@nissa_the.bookwormInstagram Post about Bella and Bird Explore Anger |
| Tuesday, October 21, 2025Q&As with Deborah KalbInterview with Deana Plaskon, PhD, LMHC |
