“Tomás Returns to School” is a children’s book about dealing with big feelings and it’s authored by Xiomara Gallego-Bernard and illustrated by Irina Chasov.

It’s available in English and Spanish (Tomás Regresa a la Escuela), with the book summary reading as follows:

Tomás Returns to School – The Story of a Boy With Big Feelings

As the first day of school draws near, Tomás, a boy with Big Feelings, will soon embark on a new adventure in first grade. A flurry of emotions overwhelms him, causing Tomás to stay in fight or flight mode.

With Mamá’s help, Tomás learns ways to manage his emotions and channel his inner strength. Will Tomás be ready for his first day of school?

About the Book’s Characters

Tomás Returns to School features four main characters:

• Tomás – a 6-year-old boy of Colombian and Puerto Rican descent, born in Brooklyn, NY. He is kind, empathetic, loyal, funny, smart, creative, and Highly Sensitive. Tomás loves to paint, colour, and draw.
• Mamá – the mother of Tomás. She is 40 years old, Highly Sensitive, and loves to work out and practise yoga.
• Freddy – a 7-year-old snail and friend to Tomás. He is a loyal companion who loves to read, eat leaves and vegetables, and go on scavenger hunts.
• Topita – a dependable and empathetic 4-year-old pet mouse. She likes to play with squishy balls, ride her scooter, and eat cheese.

Visit Xiomara’s website to learn more about Tomás Returns to School.