My Spinning Anxious Brain

By Dani Vee & Ruth-Mary Smith

Larrikin Press 2026

Reviewed by Margarite Igras

Australian author, podcaster, and former teacher, Dani Vee, has used her experiences as someone with ADHD, to create child centred books for four- to eight-year-olds, designed to help children explore the challenges and strengths of having a different kind of brain. Her book, My Supercharged ADHD Brain explores what it is really like to have a neurodivergent brain; what it feels like, and what it looks like at school, home and amongst friends.  In this book, My Spinning Anxious Brain, she focuses on helping children navigate the challenges of anxiety. Together with Ruth-Mary Smiths colourful whimsical illustrations, and Dani’s simple text this is a book that will delight, inform and offer some helpful strategies on understanding, accepting, and managing anxiety.

A little boy speaks to the reader about what it is like having an overthinking brain where thoughts race uncontrollably. Sometimes, he feels like his mind is trapped inside a blender with his thoughts swirling round and round or that there are worms dancing inside his belly. This can have an overwhelming effect on concentration, sleep, and functioning at school. But there is something he can do to feel safe and calm. There is the support of his family, cuddling his pet cat, and to try and stay in the moment rather than worrying about things that haven’t happened yet.

The bright sparkling cover is a wonderful introduction to the text and animated illustrations inside. Each page has a phrase or sentence in large font and together with the colourful illustrations, the reader will gain some gentle explanations, some delightful new terms and cues to further discuss the experiences of being anxious.

A wonderful and positive book that is sure to engage all children.

Another title by this author reviewed in StoryLinks is  Archie Can’t Sit Still,