Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite

Gary and Gibby's Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries is a children’s picture book written by Tina Rafowitz with illustrations by Marty Harris. It follows Gary, a young boy who is about to transition from kindergarten to first grade. This should be an exciting period, but Gary is filled with dread and worry about his summer vacation, the neatness of his handwriting, and whether his parents will be there when he gets home. He has been seeing a feelings doctor about his anxiety but finds it difficult to practice his calming strategies. However, things change when his parents give him a new puppy, which he names Gibby. The pair get along so well that Gary begins to forget about his worries. Through their shared experiences of fear, change, and companionship, Gary discovers he is applying the coping strategies he learned. As he faces various challenges with Gibby, Gary learns that change can be exciting, leading to the anticipation of new adventures ahead.

Gary and Gibby's Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries is a beautiful story that highlights the importance of love, compassion, and support when dealing with anxiety. The story is interesting with relatable characters and helpful insights, making it an excellent resource for children navigating their fears. The book perfectly addresses childhood anxiety, encouraging young readers to recognize and communicate their feelings, while empowering them to embrace change and adventure. Tina Rafowitz's narration is soothing and well-paced, making this an engaging read for children. The themes tackled will appeal to both children and adults who deal with anxiety daily. It will provide them with a gentle yet impactful approach to understanding and managing their emotions. The vibrant, colorful illustrations perfectly complement the story. I enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend sharing it with your children to help them navigate their worries and fears.