Jellybean

“This is a gentle and authentically honest portrayal of a young girl suffering from severe anxiety and school refusal, which is sadly a growing problem in the UK … an essential read for teachers and parents … Ellie’s story will undoubtedly resonate with and reassure many young readers.” — LoveReading4Kids

“A powerful story for children who have experienced anxiety about school. Whether they’ve actually stayed away from school for long periods or pushed through stressful, teary mornings when leaving the house is so hard, it shows them they are not alone … Schools, GPs and Education Welfare Officers will be able to recommend this book to parents who are looking after anxious young people.” — Scope for Imagination, blog

“An empathetic portrayal of school-based anxiety told through the eyes of Ellie, a young girl who wakes up and is so overcome with anxiety that she cannot attend school and continues to not attend for a large period of time. As a teacher, this short story hit home. It reflects how absence is not always rooted in bullying or academic pressure. A powerful read.” – NetGalley review

“What a wonderful, and really accessible book on so many levels … I see so many pupils in school who should be able to understand and relate to Ellie … This book may provide opportunities for children, parents, teachers and support staff/agencies to start needed conversations.” – NetGalley review

Eve Ainsworth is an award-winning teen author and experienced school speaker, with a background working for secondary schools in pastoral and child protection roles. She is the author of several best-selling novels including the award-winning and Carnegie Medal nominated 7 Days.