This was a beautiful analogy for how our feelings can manifest and turn ugly if we let them, but that reframing and calming down can lead to even better things. Plus, nothing is permanent. I love the way the little girl became upset with her brother to the point that she threw and lost the keys. At that point, things seemed hopeless, and Her Majesty of Muck came to represent all of the bad thoughts and feelings swallowing her up.

When she looked outward and her brother said they had a spare set of keys, she realizes she has power over her feelings.

I highly recommend this cute allegorical tale for schools, libraries, social workers and therapists.

Even covered in muck & mud, Beatrice Alegmagna’s art dazzles. A rash act propels our protagonist, a little sister with a bad temper being ignored by a sullen brother, into a majestic world dripping below the surface, where encouraged to muddle and wallow, she eventually finds herself and perspective transformed. Disgustingly delightful.

A great read that showcases how our feelings can manifest into bad ones or ugly ones but how we can turn it around. It's a sweet read that reframes this lesson for kids in a way that would help them better understand it. The art is also charming.