A Picture Book by Karen Winter · Ages 4 to 8
When Fear Gets Mixed Up
Ellie & Lucy's Backyard Adventure
A story about a little Fear with a big heart... and the words that help your child when Fear gets loud.
The Story
Meet Fear
Fear has a teal hoodie, yellow rain boots and a backpack full of crackers, stickers and a spare sock... just in case.
He means well. He's only trying to keep everyone safe.
But sometimes a sleeping cat becomes a panther. And a backyard fence becomes a mountain. 😅
When best friends and next-door neighbors Ellie and Lucy head out on an adventure, Fear comes too... and learns that not everything he sees is what it seems.
In Fear's Backpack
The Words It Gives Your Family
Instead of “don't be scared”... your child learns to ask,
“Is Fear Getting Mixed Up?”
Feelings are real. They're not always true.
This book gives your child a way to notice when Fear is telling a story that isn't quite right... and gives you the language to meet them there.
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For Your Child
A funny, lovable character who makes big feelings feel less scary.
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For You
Simple words to use in the moment, the same ones your child hears in the story.
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For Bedtime and Beyond
“Fear can be loud... but I am safe... I've got this.”
A Peek Inside
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Ellie grabbed Pip. Lucy squealed. Fear froze. -
And together... WHOOOOOOOSH! -
“Sleeping panther,” he breathed. -
And little by little... everyone drifted off to sleep.
Early Reactions
Shared after an early look inside the book.
“I especially love how you've helped children identify what fear is, what it looks like, and what it feels like. That's such an important conversation to have with children, and you've created a wonderful way to get it started... Parents, teachers, and school counselors need resources like this!”
“I am forever amazed at how you put together a story (with the very relatable parts of a child's day) to make wonderful teachings but entertaining at the same time!”
“You can really see how much heart and soul went into this book, right down to the smallest details... I can absolutely see how helpful and meaningful it's going to be!”
Meet the Author
Karen Winter
I'm Karen Winter, a pediatric sleep consultant, mom to Rae and now a children's author in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.
This story started at bedtime. After my first story, Little by Little, Rae begged for an adventure. So we told one together... and Fear came along.
I write stories that help children whisper, “Oh... I get it now.”
Fear Means Well
A heartwarming adventure that helps children see fear in a whole new way.
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