When Finn's family plants a tree in the backyard, he feels responsible for it and worries the little sapling is cold, hungry or lonely. He tries to share his breakfast with the tree, offers it his scarf, and spends the afternoon keeping it company. Just after going to bed, his nightlight goes out and Finn is plunged into darkness. As his nerves start to take hold, it occurs to him that his tree is outside in the dark, every night! But when he sees that his little tree is standing tall and brave in the moonlight and doesn't seem afraid, it inspires Finn to be brave as well. And so Finn's kindness and curiosity end up helping him to overcome his fear of the dark. Growing Pains is a touching story about curiosity, kindness, empathy, care of the environment, and overcoming your fears.

About the Author

Alison McLennan was a terrible creative writer as a child but an enthusiastic volunteer in her school library. After studying journalism and then working in PR/media, Alison returned to creative writing while raising her family. When not writing children's books, she's busy prancing on the stage in musical theatre productions, singing with her children's band Allioopsy, working as a voice-over artist, or curled up reading a book with her cat Honey.

Melissa Johns is an artist, illustrator, an avid upcycler and a closet poet. She produces artworks predominantly made of recycled materials that lend her work a uniquely whimsical quality. Melissa is passionate about her family, her artistic creations and stimulating young minds through art and literature.

Reviews
... an important book for young children to realise their own courage and resilience, and inspire care for the world around us. This is one that will absolutely burst your own heart with love. * Just Write for Kids *
The lush collage art this in picture book is a delight - adding whimsy and gentleness to a tender tale of empathy, kindness and care for the environment, and how to draw on the strengths of others to overcome your fears. * South Sydney Herald *
Charming and fun. * Blue Wolf Reviews *
A lovely exploration of curiosity and a child's world from a child's perspective. It's filled with wonder. * Kids' Book Review *
Growing Pains is a quiet, lovely story, and a visual delight. It also has a message for a child to discover along the way. I recommend this book as a great bedtime read. * BuzzWords *
A touching story about curiosity, kindness, empathy, care of the environment, and overcoming your fears. * Bookworm for Kids *
A new book book about a boy growing up and experiencing feelings of curiosity, empathy and care for the environment. * Wangaratta Chronicle *
The story flows smoothly and allows the illustrations to add their spark and even a pinch of humor. These are done in a textured style, which allows artistic flair while keeping everything easy to identify. * Book Worm for Kids *
Finn's journey is full of fun and humour. It's about asking big questions and curiosity, as well as care and empathy. Illustrator Melissa Watts uses mainly recycled materials for her work. This is a unique point of difference and fits well with the book, which, though it doesn't engage with ecological questions, may help children develop a sensitivity to the natural around them. * NZ Booklovers *
I think it's a lovely book, excellent for spawning conversations about worries, fears, friendships, and the natural world, along with discussions about creative license and language tools such as similes. * KidsBooksNZ *



Book Information
ISBN 9781925820522
Author Alison McLennan
Format Hardback
Page Count 32
Imprint EK Books
Publisher Exisle Publishing