Be My Brave Sunflower

Be My Brave Sunflower by Kathryn Simmonds is a children’s book published by Candlewick Press on July 22, 2025. This 40-page story follows an anxious sunflower seed named Vernon as he grapples with his fears while trying to grow and bloom. Set against the backdrop of a school planting project, the narrative explores themes of anxiety and courage, as Vernon confronts the challenges of the outside world.
Readers will find a warm and reassuring tale that addresses feelings of apprehension, particularly for young children facing new experiences like starting school. Through Vernon’s journey, the book emphasizes the importance of friendship and social skills, encouraging children to recognize that overcoming fears can lead to rewarding experiences. This edition is presented in English, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Official synopsis Publisher
What happens when an anxious sunflower seed named Vernon faces his fears–and decides to grow and bloom anyway?
The children are planting sunflowers at school, and Carla is given a seed named Vernon. All the other children’s seeds are excited to get out of the packet and start growing, but not Vernon. He knows about slugs and birds and thunderstorms. He knows that the world is scary–and though Carla waters him lovingly, to her dismay, Vernon is the only seed that doesn’t grow into a seedling. Can Vernon drum up the courage to push himself out of the ground and face the world for Carla? This warm and reassuring story for young children who feel anxiety about a new chapter in their life, such as starting school, may help seed the realization that the satisfaction of new experiences is worth overcoming one’s fears.
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