Ellis on Guard

"Ellis on Guard is a gentle, imaginative story about living with anxiety—and finding ways to stand tall anyway. Sal Sawler writes with a steady hand and a big heart, weaving a narrative that’s both relatable and inventive. The story doesn’t just name the worries many kids carry: it gives them tools, kindness, and a sense of control. Plus, the illustrations are a treat: playful, warm, and full of life. This is a beautiful book for the anxious child and the grown-up who loves them."

"Sawler's portrayal of Ellis is the perfect blend of lighthearted and sensitive. Sawler ably demonstrates that although Ellis's worries can be a challenge, they can also be a positive thing too, giving them a heightened awareness of the people and things around them, and helping them to develop the ability to plan and to problem solve in creative ways. Charming and affirming, Ellis is a character that many readers of all ages will relate to and be inspired by."

"Sal Sawler sensitively takes Ellis in small steps from worrisome to attentive beyond the worries. Once Ellis realizes that they can do good, they put aside the worry and step up to be the protector they envision themself to be....kids would gain from discussions of how Ellis changes their outlook and sets aside a worry, perhaps helping to cope with their own concerns and see the positives where they exist...[illustrator Nandita Ratan] keeps most of the illustrations light and colourful, never terrifying, and thus helps to convey the message that worries can be dispelled by not catastrophizing and with a change in perspective."