
Reach for this book when you suspect your child is carrying a heavy secret or a persistent worry that they are too afraid, ashamed, or protective to share with you. This therapeutic story follows Monica Plum, a girl who discovers a 'horrid problem' that follows her everywhere, manifesting as a physical weight that drains her joy and energy. It beautifully illustrates the psychological toll of keeping secrets and the immense relief that comes from finding a trusted person to help carry the burden. Designed by a child psychotherapist, the book uses clear metaphors to help children identify their own 'horrid problems,' whether they stem from family issues, school anxiety, or personal guilt. It is appropriate for children aged 4 to 12, as it offers a safe, metaphorical space to discuss complex feelings. Parents will find it an invaluable tool for opening a non-threatening dialogue about the things their children might be hiding to 'protect' the adults in their lives.
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Sign in to write a reviewThe personification of the 'horrid problem' may be slightly unsettling for sensitive children.
The book deals with deep-seated anxiety and the concept of 'toxic secrets.' The approach is highly metaphorical, never specifying what the problem is, which allows it to apply to anything from witnessing domestic strife to personal shame. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, emphasizing that while problems might not vanish instantly, sharing them makes them manageable.
A child who has become uncharacteristically quiet, withdrawn, or 'perfect' in an attempt to manage stress at home or school. Specifically, it is for the child who thinks they are the only one with a 'bad' thought or a scary secret.
Read this book through once alone. The imagery of the 'horrid problem' can be quite stark. Be prepared for your child to potentially disclose something during or after the reading. A parent might choose this after seeing their child struggle with physical symptoms of anxiety (stomachaches, headaches) or after a significant family change where the child hasn't expressed any outward emotion.
Younger children (4-7) will relate to the physical 'monster' aspect of the problem and the comfort of the adult helper. Older children (8-12) will deeply resonate with the psychological accuracy of trying to 'mask' their feelings to fit in or protect others.
Unlike many 'worry' books that focus on small daily anxieties, this book addresses the weight of significant, hidden trauma or shame through a sophisticated therapeutic lens.
Monica Plum discovers a 'horrid problem' (represented as a dark, intrusive entity) that attaches itself to her. It makes her feel sick, tired, and unable to enjoy her favorite things. She tries to hide it, ignore it, and even befriend it, but it only grows heavier. Eventually, she finds the courage to share her secret with a supportive adult, leading to the problem shrinking and Monica regaining her sense of self.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.