That’s My Truck! A Good Inside Story About Hitting

Kennedy—aka Dr. Becky—makes emotional regulation feel achievable in a picture book debut that exemplifies best practices for kids and caregivers. Ready for some fun after a series of “annoying” self-care tasks, light-brown-skinned Charlie explodes when he discovers his sister playing with his favorite truck. Evenhanded text describes his rapid emotional spiral (“The want got so big, so fast. The worries got so loud, so quickly”) and its outcome (“Before he even knew what he was doing, he hit his sister”). Pale-skinned Mom helps guide the conflict to resolution by setting boundaries and acknowledging Charlie’s frustration: “You’re a good kid having a hard time. And I’m here.” The narrative deploys its message lightly and clearly while demonstrating how Mom’s support—conveyed through words and expressions—helps Charlie regain his equilibrium. Stone’s unlined and unadorned artwork centers on the figures’ interactions and evolving emotions against a paper-white background. “A Good Inside Guide to Hitting” concludes. Ages 3–6. (Apr.)