The Ghost Who Was Afraid of Everything
Nadia Ahmed’s ‘The Ghost Who Was Afraid of Everything’ is a captivating tale, equally suitable for Halloween and any time of year. This story of young Finn, a ghost plagued by various fears, offers young readers a charming narrative about facing one’s own anxieties.
Meet Finn, the Anxious Ghost
Finn is not your average ghost. Terrified of tree branches, butterflies, the color orange, and even flying, Finn spends Halloween in his attic, avoiding the noisy human festivities that make him uncomfortable. Unlike his daring older siblings who revel in Halloween’s excitement, Finn stays behind, yearning for his favorite treat—chocolate bats.
A Promise to Overcome
When his siblings forget to bring him his coveted chocolate bats, Finn resolves to conquer his fears by next Halloween. Ahmed skillfully encapsulates Finn’s trepidation in vivid prose: ‘When Finn is afraid, his stomach swoops, his hands sweat, and he can’t move.’ This portrayal is relatable to young readers who understand the sensation of overwhelming fear.
Steps Toward Bravery
Finn embarks on a self-regulated program of exposure therapy, beginning with the small step of touching a leafless branch for a whole minute. Ahmed’s whimsical illustrations add depth to the story, initially in black and white with pops of Finn’s dreaded orange. These vibrant touches grow in frequency as Finn triumphs over his fears.
A Colorful Transformation
As Finn faces his anxieties one by one, his world gradually fills with color. The final spread is a visual celebration of Halloween orange and the full spectrum of the rainbow. This transformation not only highlights the spooky Halloween essence but also portrays Finn’s journey with vibrant, motivational imagery.
Nadia Ahmed’s ‘The Ghost Who Was Afraid of Everything’ is a delightful and inspiring narrative that will encourage readers to navigate their fears, enhancing their bravery, one small step at a time.
