Leonardo, the Terrible Monster

Reach for this book when your child feels like they do not measure up to expectations or is struggling to find their place in a group. It is a perfect choice for the 'gentle soul' who feels pressured to be something they are not, whether that is being tough, athletic, or traditionally successful. Leonardo is a monster who is supposed to be scary, but he simply is not. After a failed attempt to find the most 'scare-able' kid in the world, he realizes that his true talent is not in frightening others, but in being a wonderful friend. Mo Willems uses his signature humor and expressive illustrations to explore themes of empathy, identity, and the courage to change one's mind. The story normalizes the feeling of being a 'failure' at a specific task and pivots that energy toward social-emotional success. It is a comforting, funny, and deeply validating read for children aged 3 to 8 who are navigating the complexities of making friends and being themselves.