• Age: 5 to 9
• Grade: k to 3
• Reading age: 7 to 8

Avi is an anxious avocado. He worries about everything, always wondering what-if? what-then? what's going to happen? and ends up avoiding everything that frightens him. One day, he hears an unusual sound outside his kitchen window . . . what could that THUMP THUMP THUD be? Fear swells in the pit of his stomach, but it occurs to him: what is the worst thing that could happen if he just dares himself to face his fears? Versatile enough for family reading, classroom, or school counselor use, readers will be rooting for Avi as he navigates situations that he once avoided. Avi's confidence builds, bolstered by the support of friends and energized by a proven method for dealing with social anxiety, until Avi takes the plunge and faces his fears head-on!

Brenda S. Miles, PhD, is a clinical pediatric neuropsychologist who works with children, teens, and families. She blends brain science with creativity to build programs and resources that support learning and mental health. Dr. Miles lives near Toronto, Canada. You can follow her on Instagram.

Brenda S. Miles' profile page

Monika Filipina is an award-winning author and illustrator. She earned a master's degree in children's book illustration at Cambridge School of Arts. She lives in Toruń, Poland. Visit her on Facebook @MonikaFilipinaIllustration and on X and Instagram @MonikaFilipina.

Monika Filipina's profile page