“This Will Pass: A Story of Mindful Resilience” by J. Donnini helps parents take a new perspective on children’s fears and worries.

Parents and teachers take note that this book functions as a beautiful allegory aimed at helping children navigate the unknown and their fears about the unknown.

The story follows young Crue, who’s about to embark on an ocean voyage with his Great Uncle Ollie. Crue is very excited, but he can’t help constantly worrying:

“What if the boat breaks?”

“What if an octopus swallows us?”

“What if whales take over the boat?”

Despite these nagging concerns, Crue takes the helm with his Uncle Ollie.

At first the seas are calm, but the water does turn rough as a storm descends on the little boat, and the waves begin to crash and swirl around them.

Crue becomes very distressed, but key to the story is how Uncle Ollie comforts him by acknowledging Crue’s fears and then teaches him calming strategies like breathing, singing, and repeating, “This will pass!”

What sets this book apart from many children’s books crafted to counter anxiety is its validation of worry as a legitimate feeling. Rather than dismissing Crue’s concerns or assuring him nothing bad will happen, the story acknowledges that the world can indeed be worrisome, even dangerous. Because Uncle Ollie doesn’t eliminate Crue’s fears there is an opportunity to teach Crue how to navigate through difficulty using mindfulness techniques.

Luke Scriven’s illustrations beautifully complement this approach. They express honest emotions that children may recognize. The visual journey through stormy seas and calmer waters mirrors the emotional experience of working through anxiety. By the end, Crue must captain his own way home, having internalized the tools Uncle Ollie shared. This progression honors children’s capacity for personal growth and resilience.

J. Donnini’s background in music shines through in the lyrical quality of her writing style. The mantra “Be calm, it will pass” is memorable and easy for children to repeat and retain. This phrase offers practical comfort grounded in the concept of impermanence; it’s a teaching that most difficult feelings and situations are temporary. Some might identify this as a Buddhist teaching; others may see it as a positive coping behavior for minor challenges that can be overcome.

For parents, educators, or therapists seeking books that validate children’s fears and worries while providing constructive coping tools, “This Will Pass” is an excellent choice. It empowers children by affirming their emotions and equipping them with strategies to weather life’s inevitable storms.

As a reminder to educators and parents, books that tackle mental health challenges can be a doorway and a tool. Keep in mind that this book and this review is in no way prescriptive! It’s not a replacement for the provision of mental health care, mental health providers, providers’ advice, and treatment; especially for children suffering from serious anxiety disorders and trauma.