Gloria’s Big Problem

Gr 1-3–Gloria Marvel has a problem. A really big problem that follows her wherever she goes. When Gloria wants to try new things—a sleepover with her friend, singing at a birthday party or trying out for a school show—her Problem is always there. It tells her about earthquakes and blizzards and other terrible things that could happen if she tries anything new. It’s enough to persuade Gloria not to try different things. Nobody else can hear or see her Problem. She tries to talk to her big brother about it, but he only laughs at her in front of other kids. Her parents don’t seem to pay attention when she goes to them for help. She even tries to tell her Problem to go away, but it grows bigger and speaks even louder in her ears. Gloria must find a way to deal with her Problem herself and possibly find a way to help others. This is a great book for children who are dealing with issues similar to Gloria’s. It’s unfortunate that her family doesn’t listen to her, but Gloria finds the strength to deal with it. Although Problem is a problem, it is depicted as a large green beast that is more annoying than scary.