Jellybean

“Dedicated to anyone who has ever suffered from anxiety, this gentle story explores the complex feelings behind school avoidance: a problem that has seen a huge increase in recent years, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. In a super-accessible format, interspersed with black and white illustrations, Ellie’s journey shows how the right support and therapy can equip young people with the strategies to process difficult emotions and manage anxiety.” — BookTrust, Book of the Day

“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

“Not only is Jellybean an excellent book, it is an essential read for anyone who is suffering from EBSA (Emotionally Based School Avoidance), their family or their friends … Written from Ellie’s perspective, we gain a real understanding about the effects of school avoidance on the child and family as well as their friends.” — ReadingZone review

“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

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.