Emelia doesn’t think she is being treated fairly. It’s test day for students at Chicoree Elementary. Emelia is stressing over her science and math exams, scared she won’t be able to finish either one in the time allowed. When she sees that Sammy gets extra time to finish his tests and Cecelia even gets to use a calculator, Emelia gets SMAD - a tummy-churning mix of SAD and MAD! Why do they get special treatment? How is that even fair?
The smadder Emelia gets, the more belly breaths she takes to calm down. But when deep breathing doesn’t make her feel any better, Emelia has to take a seat in the counsellor’s office. With the help of a prickly cactus, a lily pad and a blooming flower, Emelia learns that what’s fair will not always look equal. This story’s timely message is about equity in the classroom and offers lessons for parents, counsellors and teachers with tips that are included in the back of the book. This story will help kids understand that everyone is different and that we shouldn’t judge others, but instead focus on how we can help ourselves.