Button Down

Name: Button Down
ISBN: 9780763662073

For the child who struggles with big worries, this story offers a heartwarming look at finding courage and navigating anxiety one small step, or button, at a time.

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About This Book

A parent might reach for this book when their cautious, rule-following child is struggling with big worries that hold them back from new experiences. Button Down is the story of Ned, an eleven-year-old boy who loves order, rules, and his meticulously organized button collection. His world feels safe and predictable until Lester, a bold and rambunctious daredevil, moves in next door. This new friendship, combined with a local legend about a giant snapping turtle, gently pushes Ned to confront his fears. It's a heartwarming and humorous story that validates an anxious child's feelings while showing that bravery isn't the absence of fear, but the courage to take one small step forward.

Anxiety & Worry Friendship & Social Fear & Bravery Making Friends Self-Confidence & Identity Being Different School Life Friendship & Loyalty

What Parents Should Know

Mild PerilMild

Kids go on an unsupervised adventure near a creek to find a legendary giant turtle.

Sensitive Topics

The book's central theme is childhood anxiety. The approach is direct and empathetic, portrayed through Ned's internal thoughts, his physical reactions to stress (a tight feeling), and his reliance on rules and lists to cope. The portrayal is secular and focuses on internal coping mechanisms and the power of friendship. The resolution is hopeful and realistic: Ned doesn't stop being a worrier, but he learns he is capable of being brave despite his fear.