Hank and Frank Shake off a Case of the Grumpies

Hank and Frank Shake off a Case of the Grumpies
by Danelle Chapman
 
Hank and Frank are an adventurous duo who love activities like mountain biking, flag football, and hiking. But after an action-packed day at the bike park, Hank finds himself battling "a case of the grumpies," feeling tired, lonely, and overwhelmed. His emotions spiral as he flops onto the floor in frustration, leaving him stuck in a whirlwind of negativity.
 
With patience and empathy, Hank’s mom steps in to help. She encourages him to shake off the grumpies through movement, like playing catch with Frank. Slowly, Hank's mood begins to improve. Later, they sit in a hammock together and talk about what happened, exploring ways to manage his emotions in the future. Hank learns a three-step strategy: distract and move, calm and relax, and finally, cope and reflect. With his mom's support, Hank discovers the power of practicing emotional resilience.
 
Danelle Chapman has crafted a heartwarming and relatable story about the ups and downs of childhood emotions. Through Hank’s struggles and eventual triumph, kids are introduced to practical emotional regulation techniques in a way that feels natural and engaging. The book's pacing is well-suited for young readers, and the inclusion of playful moments, like Frank’s antics during a game of catch, keeps the story light and fun while delivering an important message.
 
Chapman shines in capturing the complexity of emotions—Hank’s progression from grumpy to calm is portrayed authentically, emphasizing that managing big feelings takes practice. The introduction of tools like "5-finger breathing" and a simple three-step plan makes the story both educational and empowering. Parents and children alike will appreciate the gentle reminder that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and that everyone, even adults, can work on emotional resilience.
 
This delightful book is a valuable resource for families and educators aiming to help kids navigate their emotions. It’s a perfect balance of entertainment and emotional learning, wrapped up in a warm and caring narrative.
 
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