The Very Worst Monster

A parent might reach for this book when their older child is feeling overshadowed by a new baby and acting out for attention. The story centers on Hazel, a young monster who feels ignored when her baby brother, Billy, arrives. In the monster world, being bad is good, and everyone fawns over how "terrible" the new baby is. Hazel's increasingly desperate attempts to prove she is also a very bad monster are overlooked, fueling her frustration. This humorous tale brilliantly validates an older sibling's feelings of jealousy and the deep need for individual recognition. For children aged 3 to 7, the silly monster antics make difficult emotions feel safe and approachable. The Very Worst Monster is an excellent choice because it sidesteps preachy lessons about being a good big sister. Instead, it celebrates the older child's cleverness and helps them see that there is more than enough love and attention to go around, even if it feels otherwise in the moment. It provides a fun, cathartic experience that opens the door to talking about big feelings.