Storm In A Jar

By Author / Illustrator

Samuel Langley-Swain

Genre

Mental Health & Wellbeing

Age range(s)

Publisher

Owlet Press

ISBN

9781913339111

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

21-09-2021

Synopsis

Arlo visited Nana every Sunday, and she would always have new sweets waiting for him inside a special jar. So when Arlo finds out Nana has passed away, he keeps the jar with him to feel safe and closer to his Nana. But as his sadness turns to anger, a storm builds inside the jar, until Arlo has enough – and smashes it open! What will happen when the storm rushes out?

A story that encourages children to talk about bereavement and anger, and explore ways to manage, embrace, and safely release them. It also includes a science experiment, and a guide to make a ‘glitter jar’ to help with anger.

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Reviews

I read Storm in a Jar to my class and asked for their comments, this one was the most poignant from an articulate nine year old, and it shows what a great impact a well written story can have; providing a way in for children to talk freely about their feelings:

'This book made me feel all sorts of feelings and had me thinking about my Nan who died last year. While I didn't feel angry like Arlo in the book, I did feel lonely after Nan died. I used to go to her house after school until my mum came home from work. I really liked the book's ending because, like my mum tells me, it showed Arlo's nan being safe and happy. That's how I like to think of my nan now. I think I like the idea of having something to remind me of nan. I'm going to ask my mum when I get home if there's anything I can have to remind me of her. Feelings are always better out in the open and not bottled up.' By W aged 10

Picture book / Reviewed by Sharon Porter, teacher