What Do You Do with a Problem?

Yamada, K. (2016). What Do You Do With a Problem? Seattle, WA: Compendium Inc.

This book explains to young readers how to solve a problem. The unique thing is, the problem is represented as a gray cloud. It follows the narrator through out the book. The readers see that worrying, hiding, and ignoring it do not make the cloud go away. Finally the young boy tackles the the cloud and opportunity comes out of it.  

As adults we understand and appreciate the author's message. It is an important message for young readers to hear. They shouldn't run from problems as they will just follow you and get bigger. However if you are 3 or 4  years old you may think of this book in the literal sense. Gray clouds will follow you until you tackle it and make it stop. This is a good book to read out loud to discuss problem solving for young classes.  You could also use it with older students to show personification and lead a lesson on how to write and give non human things human characteristics.