Isobel Hates Change: A joyful picture book about embracing the unexpected

Isobel Hates Change is a warm and reassuring picture book about a young girl who loves routine and knowing exactly what to expect from her school day. From spending time with her best friend Lillian to enjoying her favourite lessons, everything feels safe and predictable until a substitute teacher arrives and turns her carefully planned day upside down.

Struggling with the unexpected changes, Isobel becomes frustrated and upset. However, with support from Steve the dog, she gradually learns that change is a natural part of life and that new experiences can sometimes bring positive opportunities.

The story delivers its message with warmth, humour and empathy, making it particularly relatable for young children who find comfort in routine. This is an excellent book which provides a valuable starting point for discussions about feelings, managing uncertainty and developing flexible thinking when plans do not go as expected. It offers opportunities to explore PSHE themes, encourage speaking and listening skills, and support children through transitions or changes in routine.

Particularly beneficial for pupils who experience anxiety around change, the story validates children's emotions while promoting positive coping strategies in an accessible and age-appropriate way. Its engaging narrative and relatable characters make it a meaningful addition to classroom reading and wellbeing provision.

Picture book / Reviewed by Louise Gahan, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+

Isobel Hates Change is a sweet, relatable story about a little girl who really doesn't like things being different. From changes to routines and expectations to the uncomfortable feelings that come with things not staying exactly as we expect, it explores something that I think a lot of young children can identify with.

I particularly liked the illustrations by Mark Chambers - they’re bright, expressive and full of personality, and they really bring Isobel's frustration and emotions to life. I also really liked the underlying message that change isn’t always a bad thing. As change can be genuinely difficult for lots of children, this feels like a lovely, gentle way of introducing the subject and opening up conversations about how changes might make us feel and how sometimes they can lead to something positive.

My nearly four-year-old enjoyed the story, although some elements went over her head a little. In particular, she didn’t really understand the purpose of some of the deliberate repetition, so I think parts of the humour and structure probably work better for slightly older children. That said, she still happily listened and enjoyed it. A warm, colourful book with a genuinely useful message behind it — and one I can see being particularly helpful for children who find change tricky.

Picture book / Reviewed by Linda Canning, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+