Description
Eight-year-old Izzy Parker’s biggest problem is feeling anxious and afraid. Her mom’s decision to move them across the country to Prince Edward Island didn’t help. Izzy worries she will say the wrong thing or laugh at the wrong time, and none of the kids will want to be her friend. Sometimes, it’s so hard to be Izzy that she can’t breathe.
In her honest, awkward, and anxious journal, Izzy writes down the story of her life and how she is trying to be a little less afraid. The good news: things might not be as bad as they seem. Even better? They will soon have a small, furry new family member—an emotional support dog named Gandalf!
Author Bio
Alma Fullerton is an internationally award-winning author, illustrator, and editor. Coming from a military family she's lived all over Canada as well as Germany. Growing up she struggled with reading and writing due to her dyslexia. Now she goes into schools to teach children they can overcome anything to achieve what they want in life. She lives in North Lake, Prince Edward Island.
Prizes
- Ann Connor Brimer Award for Atlantic Canadian Children's LiteratureShort-listed 2024
- Forest of Reading, Silver Birch Express AwardNominated 2024
- Saskatchewan Young Readers Choice Shining WillowShort-listed 2024
Review Quotes
"Izzy endeavors to become as brave as a lion in this empathetic novel by Fullerton… Heavily inked, heartfelt illustrations by Mistry accompany Izzy’s astute, mature-sounding narration."
— Publishers Weekly"The Journal of Anxious Izzy Parker is a wonderful book for children to read and learn about anxiety...The level of anxiety that Izzy feels requires medical intervention, and children will learn the importance of service animals and how to be respectful of those with special needs. Highly Recommended."
— Canadian Review of Materials"In this feel-good story told in journal entries, readers meet Izzy, who is anxious all of the time—so anxious that she's receiving an emotional support dog, which she names Gandalf, because she figures it must take a wizard to help soothe her anxiety…. The author has an emotional support animal herself and is able to weave in rich details about the kind of work these companions do for their humans. Some entries end with a small cartoon illustration of a charming scene from the narrative, such as Izzy running away from her rooster, Meanie, after collecting eggs. This is a great read for kids who want to unlock their inner lions and be brave!"
— Booklist“This quick read is written in a journal/diary-like style with 1-3 pages per entry, the perfect length for reading aloud in a classroom. Writing in this style feels as though Izzy is speaking to the reader or those listening to the story. Izzy’s relatable experiences will promote opportunities for discussions about anxiety, support animals, and coping mechanisms.”
— The Miramichi Reader