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Courage
A warm, deeply validating hug of a graphic memoir that makes the terrifying, isolating feelings of childhood anxiety feel manageable and shared.
What it feels like
Reading this graphic memoir feels like sitting down with an incredibly empathetic friend who understands exactly how scary it is to be a kid with a brain that won't stop worrying. The pacing is brisk and engaging, driven by expressive, energetic artwork that perfectly captures the visceral, stomach-churning reality of childhood anxiety. Despite the heavy weight of panic attacks and phobias, the atmosphere remains profoundly comforting, bathed in a warm, gentle light that promises things will get better. It balances wry humor with striking vulnerability, making the isolating experience of mental health struggles feel universal. This is a vital, validating read for any middle-grader navigating big feelings, or any adult looking back at the quiet terrors of growing up.
- Mood
- anxious but hopeful
- comforting
- nostalgic
- warm
- Tone
- earnest
- funny
- vulnerable
- gentle
- relatable
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- navigating childhood anxiety · the physical toll of stress · finding your voice · the power of therapy · friendship struggles
- The writing
- The visual storytelling is expressive and accessible, paired with clear, conversational dialogue that perfectly captures the cadence of childhood.
- The arc
- Moves from overwhelming, isolating fear to a place of self-acceptance, understanding, and shared vulnerability.
- Who it's for
- Middle-grade readers dealing with their own big feelings, or anyone who remembers the stomach-churning stress of growing up.
Content notes
- emetophobia (fear of vomiting)
- panic attacks
- medical anxiety
- bullying
About the book
When Raina was in fourth grade, she had a lot on her mind — school, trying not to vomit, and a million other things. Over time, Raina learned how to confront her fears and find ways to stay calm during overwhelming moments. Raina shares her anxieties and fears in this funny and poignant graphic memoir, which is sure to comfort any reader who may be going through the same thing
Description from Open Library.
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