It Will Be OK: A story of empathy, kindness, and friendship

Giraffe and Zebra always go to the watering hole together, but today Giraffe can’t go. Zebra looks everywhere for him and finally finds him up in a tree. Giraffe is scared of a spider. Zebra tries to convince him that he’s bigger and stronger than the spider, but Giraffe is still scared. So Zebra waits and waits by the tree until Giraffe is ready to come down. Giraffe thanks Zebra for waiting for him. Then the spider comes down from the tree. Will Giraffe be able to face his fear or will he end up in the tree again?

The text of this book is sparce but immensely powerful. I love Zebra’s encouraging words to Giraffe. I appreciate the fact that both animals are male because it is something that is lacking in children’s literature. In terms of the illustrations, Zebra and Giraffe are both adorable. I love how they are depicted in a bright but soothing way. The spider is cute, too.

Anyone who has ever been worried, fearful, or anxious will enjoy this book. I think teaching empathy is especially important for our kids. I love this book. I will recommend it to others. I think this book could speak to adults just as much as to kids.