Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS)

Book Review - 'Hey Warrior' by Karen Young

Have you ever felt your heart race, your tummy twist, or your mind fill with worries you can’t quite explain? 'Hey Warrior' by Karen Young is an excellent book that helps children understand exactly what’s going on when anxiety shows up and teaches them how to face it with courage.

In this beautifully illustrated picture book, Karen Young introduces us to the idea that everyone has a tiny warrior living inside them (their amygdala) whose job is to protect them from danger. Sometimes, though, this warrior gets a little overprotective and sounds the alarm even when we’re safe. Through clear, caring language and vibrant artwork, Hey Warrior explains what anxiety feels like and gives readers simple, science-based tools to calm their minds and bodies.

This book isn’t just for kids who sometimes feel anxious. It is also a great read for parents, teachers, and friends who want to understand how to support someone who’s feeling worried. 

The message is empowering: you are brave, strong, and you can train your warrior!

Whether shared at home, in a classroom, or during a wellbeing session, Hey Warrior helps open up conversations about mental health in a positive and age-appropriate way. It reminds us all that feeling anxious doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means your brain cares about keeping you safe.

This book is recommended for: 

Ages 5–12, and anyone who wants to learn how to be brave with their worries.*