Managing Sadness

An uplifting story about facing sadness and loss while rediscovering hope and self-acceptance!

Managing Sadness is a fresh, revised edition of the popular When I Couldn’t Get Over It, I Learned to Start Acting Differently storybook, by award-winning author and counselor Bryan Smith. The book now features special bonus material, including reflection questions and self-care activities, that promote children’s emotional well-being.

The story revolves around Kyle, a young boy struggling to “get over” disappointments and setbacks at home and at school. The trouble begins during a not-so-friendly game of touch football that leaves Kyle flat on his back with a bloody nose. He then finds himself on the receiving end of taunts and jokes. Soon after, no one will play with him at recess or eat with him at lunch. If that weren’t tough enough, he also has to deal with the death of his beloved pet, Bubbles. Kyle can’t stop thinking that bad things only happen to him, or that he’s just a loser and a crybaby.

Seeing Kyle’s sadness, his concerned parents and a caring school counselor step in with support and guidance. With their help, Kyle learns how to stop his negative self-talk and start acting differently when faced with disappointment and adversity. With practice and patience, Kyle embraces healthy coping strategies and works to become the best person he can be.

As Kyle’s journey out of darkness and despair unfolds, young readers can reflect on their own experiences and struggles by answering self-reflection questions and completing self-care activities. The prompts and activities, which can be done independently or with adult guidance, allow readers to explore, understand, and work through difficult feelings, especially sadness and shame.     

This inspiring story, coupled with the encouraging activities, empower children with the skills and strategies they need to transform their thinking and change the way they feel.