A Heartfelt Journey Through Emotions: Review of I Feel I Do Want! by Anat Umansky

Introduction: A Book That Speaks to Little Hearts

In a world where children are often told to “behave” or “stop crying,” Anat Umansky’s I Feel I Do Want! stands out as a gentle, affirming guide to understanding emotions. This charming children’s book, part of a value-packed series for kids aged 3-5, tackles big feelings with simplicity and warmth. Whether you’re a parent looking for bedtime stories, a teacher seeking social-emotional learning tools, or a caregiver wanting to nurture emotional intelligence, this book delivers.

With its free audio accompaniment, vibrant illustrations, and relatable scenarios, I Feel I Do Want! is more than just a story—it’s an experience. But does it live up to its promise? Let’s dive deep into this delightful book and see why it might just become a favorite on your child’s shelf.

Plot Summary: A Simple Yet Powerful Exploration of Emotions

Without giving away too much, I Feel I Do Want! follows a young child navigating everyday situations that stir up big emotions—whether it’s frustration over a broken toy, excitement for a treat, or sadness when things don’t go as planned. The narrative doesn’t rely on a complex plot but instead focuses on relatable moments that help children recognize and name their feelings.

Each page presents a scenario where the child expresses an emotion (“I feel angry!”) followed by an action (“I do stomp my feet!”). This rhythmic, repetitive structure makes it easy for preschoolers to follow along while subtly teaching them that emotions are natural and manageable.

Character Analysis: A Relatable Protagonist for Little Readers

The unnamed protagonist is intentionally generic, allowing young readers to project themselves into the story. This clever choice makes the book universally relatable—whether your child is shy, exuberant, or somewhere in between.

What stands out is how the character’s emotions are portrayed without judgment. There’s no shaming for feeling upset or overly dramatic reactions; instead, the book validates emotions while gently guiding behavior. For example:

“I feel sad… I do cry a little. But then I take a deep breath and feel better.”

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Repetition That Resonates

Umansky’s writing is simple yet effective, using a repetitive structure that reinforces emotional vocabulary. The “I feel… I do…” pattern is both engaging and educational, making it easy for kids to anticipate and participate in the story.

The free audio version enhances the experience, offering expressive narration that brings the emotions to life. For auditory learners or kids who enjoy read-alouds, this is a fantastic bonus.

The illustrations (though not discussed in detail here due to the focus on text) complement the words beautifully, using bright colors and expressive faces to reinforce the emotions described.

Thematic Exploration: More Than Just a Feelings Book

At its core, I Feel I Do Want! is about:

  1. Emotional Literacy – Helping kids put names to their feelings.
  2. Self-Regulation – Showing that emotions are okay, but actions can be managed.
  3. Empathy – Encouraging kids to recognize emotions in others.

Unlike some children’s books that moralize (“You shouldn’t feel that way!”), this one normalizes emotions, making it a powerful tool for emotional development.

Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Stuck With Me

As someone who reads a lot of children’s books (both as a reviewer and a parent), I was struck by how I Feel I Do Want! avoids preachiness. Many books in this genre either oversimplify emotions or make them seem like problems to fix. Umansky’s approach is refreshing—it meets kids where they are.

My test audience (a very opinionated 4-year-old) loved chiming in with the “I do…” parts and even started using phrases from the book in real life (“I feel frustrated! I do need a hug!”). That’s the mark of a truly effective children’s book—when it moves beyond the page into daily conversations.

Comparison to Other Books in the Genre

Fans of The Way I Feel by Janan Cain or In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek will appreciate I Feel I Do Want! for its similar focus on emotional vocabulary. However, Umansky’s book stands out for its:

  • Interactive rhythm (great for read-alouds)
  • Practical coping strategies (e.g., taking deep breaths)
  • Inclusion of free audio (a rarity in this price range)

While it may not have the lyrical depth of The Color Monster by Anna Llenas, it excels in accessibility and relatability for the preschool age group.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

✅ Perfect for ages 3-5 – Simple, engaging, and just the right length.
✅ Free audio adds value – Great for car rides or independent “reading.”
✅ Non-judgmental tone – Validates feelings without scolding.
✅ Bright, expressive illustrations – Helps visual learners connect.

Minor Weaknesses:

⚠️ Limited plot – More of a vignette-style book than a story arc.
⚠️ Some emotions are oversimplified – Could benefit from slightly more nuance for older preschoolers.

Still, these are minor quibbles for a book that accomplishes its core mission so well.

Target Audience: Who Should Read This?

This book is ideal for:

  • Parents of toddlers/preschoolers navigating big emotions.
  • Teachers looking for social-emotional learning (SEL) resources.
  • Therapists/Counselors working with young children.
  • Caregivers who want to encourage emotional expression.

If your child struggles with tantrums, frustration, or articulating feelings, this book is a gentle, effective tool.

Memorable Quotes & Passages

A few standout lines:

“I feel happy… I do laugh and clap my hands!”
“I feel scared… I do hold my teddy tight.”

These simple yet powerful statements stick with kids long after the book is closed.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Emotional Growth

I Feel I Do Want! is more than just a children’s book—it’s a conversation starter, a comfort, and a guide. Anat Umansky has crafted a resource that respects young readers while giving them the tools to understand their emotions.

Whether you’re building a child’s first library or looking for a book to ease tough moments, this one earns a permanent spot on the shelf.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers:

  • How do you help your child name and manage emotions?
  • What’s your favorite children’s book about feelings?
  • Have you tried audiobooks with your little one? How was the experience?

Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from fellow book lovers! 📚💛

Get this book on Amazon

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