2025 CHILDREN'S BOOK COUNCIL HOT OFF THE PRESS PICK

A touching picture book that reassures children with separation anxiety through proven self-soothing techniques—perfect for back-to-school, travel, deployment, divorce, daycare, or anytime you're apart.

“Mama, what will I do if I miss you?”
“Hmm. That’s a good question,” she said. “Let’s try something.”
Alex’s mom took his hand in hers and moved it over his heart.
“Can you feel your heart beating . . . thump, thump?”

Alex is starting day school, but thinking about being away from his mom for so long makes him feel worried! So he and his mom devise a plan to use their magical connection—heart to heart—to feel close to one another even if they cannot be together.

Based on a true story from author Melissa Shultz, and with magical illustrations by Lilia Miceli, What Will I Do if I Miss You? is the perfect picture book for families with working parents or children going to school or daycare for the first time.