Philomena and the Big Bad Mimi, written by Genevieve Jannelle and illustrated by Jasmine Mirra Turcotte. Kids Can Press, 2026. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"And finally, there was what happened during 
gym class on Wednesday. I was happy we were
playing soccer because I went to soccer camp
last summer. 

But as soon as the teams were formed, Mimi 
came out and attached herself to me. To my 
belly button, to be exact. 

I wanted everyone to watch ME with my 
cool soccer moves. Listen to ME ... "

Looking closely at the cover of this book before we begin allows readers a chance to think about the creature that seems to have attached itself to a young girl. They may surmise her name is Philomena; it makes one wonder exactly what a big bad Mimi is. 

At school, no one wants to play with Philomena. She is quick to pretend it doesn't matter; it does. Being alone at recess is no fun. She explains that what happened wasn't her fault; it is the big, bad Mimi who is to blame. Mimi takes her place on Philomena. It happens when the teacher wonders how students spent their weekend. As another child begins to answer, Mimi takes control of the conversation and does not let up. Aha ... Mimi is Philomena's ego! 

Mimi attaches herself to Philomena's belly button, leaving the girl only able to think about one thing: ME. ME. ME It's a real problem. It happens with friends, her brother, on the soccer field. What's to be done? Talking with Ms. Melanie helps, when she introduces Philomena to another creature who is called the Yoo-yoo. All that's needed when Mimi causes trouble is for Philomena to call for help from the Yoo-yoo. Whenever Mimi threatens to make an appearance while Philomena is speaking, the girl adds "And YOU?" to the conversation. The Yoo-yoo is right there to lend support. With help, Philomena comes to understand that others have something to say as well. 

A lesson that works for all. The ability to listen is a lifetime skill that is hard to come by these days.