Pavlo Gets the Grumps

By Author / Illustrator
Natalia Shaloshvili
Genre
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Publisher
Walker Books
ISBN
9781529505764
Format
Hardback
Published
06-06-2024
Synopsis
A book-shaped hug that we all need on a day when everything just feels BLAH.
Pavlo does not feel like going to the park. Not today.
He does not want to go swimming.
He even says no to the cinema.
What's going on, Pavlo?
Pavlo's got the grumps.
This comforting picture book takes a look at bad days and big emotions, and reminds us that we all have grumpy days sometimes but no feeling lasts forever.
Natalia Shaloshvili's expressive illustrations are sad and funny at the same time, reassuring little ones that we are loved by our family and friends even when we're not our happiest selves. Pavlo guides young children on their emotional learning journey and shows how joy is always just around the corner.
Reviews
Jemma
Pavlo is a cat who feels a bit down in the dumps. He does not want to do anything his mum suggests; he says 'no' to the park, 'no' to swimming and even 'no' to the cinema. His reasons for saying no are very child-like, I am sure my own daughter has complained the sandpit is too sandy before! Because of this, it is very relatable for young children and I am sure they will understand, and have experienced themselves, how Pavlo feels.
However, what I love most about this book is how Pavlo's feeling are affirmed by his mum. She accepts his feelings and names them; he has the grumps. This in turn helps Pavlo tell his friend about his emotions. Both his mum and his friend are there for Pavlo and, with gentle encouragement, his grumps begin to fade and he begins to feel happy and joyful once again.
Pavlo Gets the Grumps tells young children that it is okay not to feel happy, and it reassures them that our loved ones are here for us, even when we are in a disagreeable mood. The illustrations are soft and expressive. I particularly like how love and friendship are highlighted through hugs and holding hands.
This simple picture book is perfect for little children who are beginning to become aware of their feelings and emotions, and for any child who loves cats!
Picture book / Reviewed by Jemma Jeffrey, teacher
Suggested Reading Age 0+