Everyone gets scared sometimes, especially when the world seems so dangerous. In Why Don't They Believe Me When I Say I'm Afraid!, a little girl worries about getting sick. She's scared she might get sick, but her parents might get sick, too. When she shares her fears with her parents, no one seems to listen. Her little brother Billy feels the same way.

They can't go out and play. They can't go to school. They can't even see their friends—but at least they can talk to their friends on the phone, and friends listen. Friends tell this little girl not to worry. They're all in this together, and they can help each other stay safe, healthy, and brave.

It's essential for children to talk about the things that scare them and for parents to listen. Author Mela Balarine hopes her book will make both parents and kids aware of the importance of communicating with one another, assuring that children's fears are taken seriously.