THE WORRY TREE

In this Australian import, Juliet’s three-generation family is both supportive and difficult. Mom’s psychology, Dad’s fascination with making inventions out of junk, Nana’s hated craft classes and sister Ophelia’s “Irritating Song” can drive Juliet crazy. Her collections (dried cicada shells, erasers, license-plate numbers and perfect-attendance ribbons) soothe, but Juliet’s bully and best-friend worries seem insurmountable. When Juliet gets her own bedroom, away from “Oaf,” Nana’s old Worry Tree appears from under crumbling wallpaper, complete with painted animals that specialize in helping with certain kinds of worries—and goodness knows, she’s got plenty. This delightfully normal and realistically flawed family both hinders and helps as Juliet gradually learns that she is not responsible for all ill, and that with assistance, she can handle any unpleasantness in her life. Most children will not be interested in the final pages for recording worries or the downloadable poster, but Juliet’s mantra is just right for everyone: “I am a capable person who can handle any crisis.” Charming. (Fiction. 8-12)