Picture Book Pick: Too Much! An Overwhelming Day

 

Too Much: An Overwhelming Day

by Jolene Gutierrez

Illustrations by Angel Chang

Abrams Appleseed

An Imprint of Abrams 

2023 

32 pages 

ISBN; 9781419764264

Finally, a picture book about sensory overload and how children (and adults) can cope with overwhelming days! 

Too Much! An Overwhelming Day is a true gem. Rhyming text with heartfelt illustrations by Angel Chang brings this character, a young girl who is experiencing TOO MUCH!, to life. Loud noises, bright lights, itchy fabrics, too many people, too much noise can cause sensory overload and overwhelm and cause the person to experience panic. 

The girl learns how to calm down using "quiet time, dark place, soft shirt,,,not itchy, not tight." Taking a break from the cacophony of a normal day is necessary for children with sensory processing issues and those who are on the spectrum. Bonus pages include "Note to Caregivers and Educators," "Sensory Overload," and pages defining sensory systems and how to create a sensory "diet." 

Masterful storytelling make this picture book a true winner! Highly recommended for all educators and children of all ages.