A Tender Lesson in Empathy, Listening, and Finding the Story Behind the Storm
Author & Illustrator: Leanne Beardsley
Age range: 2-8 years
Year: 2025
All she wanted was a day of sunshine and play, but a big, grumpy-looking cloud has other plans. At first, it seems like the cloud is just there to ruin the fun, until the little girl takes a closer look. What if the cloud isn’t just “gray”? What if it’s feeling a little gray, too?
In this lyrical and comforting tale, we learn that clouds (and people!) often have feelings tucked behind their stormy exteriors. Rooted in the authentic, real-life words of the author’s neurodivergent daughter, the story shifts from wanting the rain to go away to wanting to understand the cloud’s story. It’s a magical reminder that the best way to handle a “grumpy” day is through the power of listening and compassion.
Why this book is helpful:
- Neurodivergent Perspective: Offers a beautiful, authentic glimpse into how children may perceive the world with unique empathy and wonder.
- Emotional Regulation: Helps kids understand that “grumpy” moods are often just “sad” moods in disguise.
- Lyrical Storytelling: The rhythmic, comforting text makes it an ideal read-aloud for settling big emotions.
- Encourages Observation: Teaches children to “look a little closer” at their environment and the people in it.
- Interactive Elements: Features adorable hidden dancing mice throughout the pages that kids will love to spot!
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