Angry Me

Feder’s Angry Me takes a look at anger, placing the spotlight on a small child recognizing the various situations in which she becomes angry. The circumstances range from people being mean and unfair to those wherein she simply becomes frustrated.

Almost each page begins with the phrase “Sometimes I get angry”, with the following sentences or parts of often ending in the word “angry” as well.

Sometimes I get angry when I'm tired. I want to go home angry.

Sometimes I get angry when things don't feel fair, I didn't do anything wrong angry.

As mentioned in the text, on many an occasion, the child is able to use her words, and other times her words come out angry or there are just mad sounds. There are also instances when the right words just aren’t there or words won’t work and just seem too hard.

Rahele Jomepour Bell’s illustrations are extremely detailed on so many items – the reader can see the attention given to a tablecloth, knapsack, and various pieces of furniture. Colorful, meticulous, and contrasted patterns abound in the children’s clothing in particular, coupled with beautiful shading within the background and objects, such as butterfly wings, to powerful effect.

Facial expressions are simple yet subtle, showing just enough for the reader to understand the intent. Body posture, including raised shoulders, furrowed brow, and a back turned with a paint brush pointing down dripping paint clearly suggest anger.

A child will undoubtedly identify with the objective/message in Angry Me. Feder’s words are straightforward and understandable, their delivery catchy, readily validating the emotion at hand. Moreover, Feder’s use of real-life events will not only resonate with both parent and child, but they serve as talking points for meaningful discussion as to what triggers anger, and how it can be appropriately communicated.

Anger Me is an excellent example where both illustrations and text work in tandem with one another to create an interesting and pertinent experience for the young reader.