Nergal and the Great Space Race

Reach for this book when your child is feeling anxious about an upcoming school event, particularly physical education or a field day where they feel their skills might not measure up. It is an ideal choice for the child who internalizes pressure to be 'the best' and experiences pre-performance jitters that result in a desire to avoid the activity entirely. The story follows Nergal, a relatable Martian first-grader, during Martian Health Week. As his class prepares for the Great Space Race, Nergal struggles with feelings of inadequacy and fear of failure. It is a gentle, humorous exploration of performance anxiety and self-confidence for the 5 to 8 age range. Parents will appreciate how it reframes competition as an opportunity for personal growth and persistence. By focusing on the internal emotional journey rather than just the outward result, the book provides a safe space to discuss the value of showing up and giving one's best effort, regardless of the trophy count.