Some Days He Growled

Reach for this book when you notice your child is confused by a hot-and-cold friendship or feels drained by a peer who is alternating between being a bully and a best friend. It serves as a gentle, age-appropriate introduction to the concept of the cycle of mistreatment. Through the characters of Wolf and Ghost, the story illustrates how manipulation works, showing that gifts and kind words do not erase mean-spirited or controlling behavior. It is an essential tool for parents looking to build their child's emotional literacy and help them recognize when a relationship is becoming unhealthy. Written for ages 5 to 10, it uses simple metaphors to empower children to set boundaries and prioritize their own well-being over a toxic connection.