The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm: A Comforting Story About Healing and Hope

Discover “The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm,” a heartwarming and poetic book by LeVar Burton and Susan Schaefer Bernardo, illustrated by Courtenay Fletcher, designed to help children cope with difficult emotions and navigate life’s challenges. This beautifully illustrated book-within-a-book offers an uplifting message of love, hope, and resilience, reminding young readers that even after the darkest storms, there is always light to be found.

When little Mica Mouse is frightened by a thunderstorm, Papa Mouse knows just what to do. He snuggles her close and begins to read “The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm”1234. Within this comforting story, a happy little rhinoceros finds his world turned upside down by a storm that takes away everything he loves234. Overwhelmed by sadness and fear, Rhino makes the mistake of swallowing the storm, only to find that it makes him feel even worse234.

Embarking on a whimsical journey toward healing, Rhino sets out to find a way to let go of the storm inside1234. Along the way, he encounters a diverse group of supportive friends, including a kind spider, a brave kangaroo, a wise tortoise, and an uplifting whale1234. Each friend offers unique insights and encouragement, helping Rhino to understand his feelings and develop the strength to face his fears124.

Through his interactions with these compassionate characters, Rhino learns that it’s okay to feel sad, scared, or overwhelmed during difficult times4. He discovers the importance of expressing his emotions and seeking support from others234. With their help, Rhino finally lets go of the storm he swallowed and begins to see the light in a world that had turned gray1234. Mica Mouse, soothed by the story, is reminded by her Papa that even when bad things happen, the world is full of caring people1234.

“The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm” provides a safe haven for families to discuss feelings and emotions that might otherwise be hard to express4. The “Take a Deeper Look” page at the end of the book provides discussion questions to facilitate a healing dialogue2.

Key Features:

• Engaging Story: A poetic and heartwarming narrative that captures the imagination.
• Relatable Characters: Animals that children can connect with.
• Emotional Support: Provides comfort and reassurance for children facing difficult times.
• Positive Message: Emphasizes the importance of love, hope, and resilience.
• Discussion Questions: Encourages open communication and emotional exploration24.
• Author Expertise: Written by LeVar Burton, beloved host of Reading Rainbow, and Susan Schaefer Bernardo, known for their work in bibliotherapy and social-emotional arts124.
• Beautiful Illustrations: Enhances the story’s emotional impact4.

“The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm” is a valuable resource for parents, educators, and caregivers looking to help children navigate grief, loss, fear, or any major change in their lives4. This book offers a gentle reminder that even during the darkest of times, love, kindness, and the support of others can help us weather any storm4. It’s a tool to help children talk about the storms in their own lives and to remind everyone to look for the helpers4. “The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm” is perfect for children ages 5-7 and aligns with K-2nd grade reading levels3.