Everyone is excited for Punxsatawney Phils big day. . . except for him.

Its the night before Groundhog Day, and Phil cant sleep. His familys voices fill his head: Its a family tradition! Youll make us so proud! Were all counting on you, you, you! Making pancakes usually sets Phils mind at ease, but before he can finish making this batch his little sister, Marla, joins him in the kitchen. She cant wait for his big day and insists on helping him practice. She even teaches him a poem to help him keep things straight.

But when Phils big (scary) day arrives, his nerves take over and his mind goes blank. What had Marla said? If you see your shadow does it mean an early spring? Or is that if you dont see your shadow? His worries are all coming true until he has an idea that saves the day.

In her picture book Phils Big Day, Liza Woodruff warmly and reassuringly addresses the common but consuming feelings anxiety brings up, and suggests coping mechanisms useful for grown-ups and kids alike. Readers who struggle to have fun in the face of their fears will resonate with Phils restless thoughts and find joy as Phil takes on his challenges with a supportive sister at his side.