Eight-year-old Izzy Parker’s biggest problem is feeling anxious and afraid. Her mom’s decision to move them across the country to Prince Edward Island didn’t help. Izzy worries she will say the wrong thing or laugh at the wrong time, and none of the kids will want to be her friend. Sometimes, it’s so hard to be Izzy that she can’t breathe.
In her honest, awkward, and anxious journal, Izzy writes down the story of her life and how she is trying to be a little less afraid. The good news: things might not be as bad as they seem. Even better? They will soon have a small, furry new family member—an emotional support dog named Gandalf!
"Izzy endeavors to become as brave as a lion in this empathetic novel by Fullerton… Heavily inked, heartfelt illustrations by Mistry accompany Izzy’s astute, mature-sounding narration."
"In this feel-good story told in journal entries, readers meet Izzy, who is anxious all of the time—so anxious that she's receiving an emotional support dog, which she names Gandalf, because she figures it must take a wizard to help soothe her anxiety…. The author has an emotional support animal herself and is able to weave in rich details about the kind of work these companions do for their humans. Some entries end with a small cartoon illustration of a charming scene from the narrative, such as Izzy running away from her rooster, Meanie, after collecting eggs. This is a great read for kids who want to unlock their inner lions and be brave!"
"The Journal of Anxious Izzy Parker is a wonderful book for children to read and learn about anxiety...The level of anxiety that Izzy feels requires medical intervention, and children will learn the importance of service animals and how to be respectful of those with special needs. Highly Recommended."
“This quick read is written in a journal/diary-like style with 1-3 pages per entry, the perfect length for reading aloud in a classroom. Writing in this style feels as though Izzy is speaking to the reader or those listening to the story. Izzy’s relatable experiences will promote opportunities for discussions about anxiety, support animals, and coping mechanisms.”