Jim the chimpanzee is having a bad day. He’s in a terrible mood and his friends don’t understand why he can’t just smile and be happy. Jim tries to take their advice, doing everything to look happier for everyone else. Nothing works. Multiple attempts at being “happy” and one minor meltdown later, he storms off into the jungle only to encounter a gorilla, Norman. Their conversation shows Jim that it’s okay to feel grumpy and sad sometimes. You’re allowed to show your true feelings, even if they’re not always positive.

This story is a wonderful introduction to a classroom discussion about emotions. The large illustrations make the book suitable for young readers.

Picture book/Short fiction · United States · 2018