Children carry big questions about the world. Sometimes those questions come after difficult news. Sometimes they surface during bedtime or car rides. Will It Be Okay? by Crescent Dragonwagon, illustrated by Jessica Love, offers families a gentle tool for talking about worry, fear, and hope.
What the Book Offers
This picture book speaks directly to children’s concerns through a simple, honest structure. A child asks questions about things that feel scary: storms, big feelings, separation, loss, and uncertainty. An adult responds with care, acknowledging real risks while offering reassurance grounded in love and presence.
The book does not promise that nothing bad will ever happen. Instead, it promises that no matter what comes, the child will not face it alone. This honest approach helps children develop resilience while feeling protected.
Jessica Love’s illustrations add warmth and tenderness to every page. Her art shows a beautiful family in moments of real connection. Her pictures show that love and care can support a person, even when they’re far apart from those they love.
Why This Book Matters Now
January 2026 has brought difficult moments for families across the Twin Cities. When children hear about events that feel frightening, they need space to ask questions and express worry. Will It Be Okay? creates that space.
The book helps children understand that:
- Worry is normal and shared by others
- Adults acknowledge real challenges instead of dismissing feelings
- Love and connection provide strength during hard times
- Family bonds remain steady even when the world feels uncertain
Research from the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University shows that responsive relationships are the most important factor in building resilience. Books like this one strengthen those relationships by giving families language for difficult conversations.
How to Use This Book
During calm moments
Read the book when your child is not actively anxious. This allows them to absorb the message without feeling overwhelmed. Discuss the questions in the book and invite your child to share their own worries.
After difficult news
Use the book as a starting point for conversation. Read it together, pause to answer questions, and reassure your child that you will face challenges together.
As part of bedtime routine
The book’s gentle rhythm and comforting tone make it suitable for bedtime reading. Ending the day with reassurance helps children sleep more peacefully.
With multiple readings
Children often need to hear messages of safety and love repeatedly. Reading the book multiple times reinforces its themes and gives children permission to keep asking questions.
Pair With Conversation
Books open doors, but conversation keeps them open. After reading, ask:
- “What questions do you have?”
- “What helps you feel safe?”
- “What can we do together when you feel worried?”
Listen more than you talk. Children often need space to process before they are ready to share. Your presence and attention matter more than having perfect answers.
Where to Find the Book
Will It Be Okay? is available at:
- Hennepin County Library
- Saint Paul Public Library
- Your neighborhood bookstore
Many libraries offer digital copies through apps like Libby or OverDrive, making the book accessible from home.
Building Home Libraries
Way to Grow believes every child deserves access to books that reflect their experiences and support their emotional growth. Our Family Educators help families build home libraries filled with diverse, meaningful stories.
If you would like support choosing books for your child or connecting to literacy resources, learn more about our family programs.
Books like Will It Be Okay? remind families that they do not navigate difficult moments alone. Through stories, conversation, and connection, we help children feel safe enough to ask hard questions and brave enough to face whatever comes.
