The heartwarming sequel to Tomás Returns to School, a children’s series designed for highly sensitive readers

Title: Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House

Author: Xiomara Gallego-Bernard

ISBN & Price: 9798988691167, $15.99

Publisher: Theinspiredfitmama LLC

Buy here.

Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House by Xiomara Gallego-Bernard

Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House by Xiomara Gallego-Bernard is the heartwarming sequel to Tomás Returns to School, a children’s series designed for highly sensitive readers. Gallego-Bernard opens with a message for sensitive souls: “Always remember, your sensitivity is a very special gift.” This message reads loud and clear throughout the book, as we follow Tomás on his playdate with friend Oliver.

The story begins with Tomás waking up, excited for the day ahead. As he gets ready to go to his friend’s house, his excitement fades and his nerves begin to build. His legs feel stiff, and he becomes so overwhelmed that he starts to cry. Tomás’ family offers reassurances and coping strategies that help him manage his nerves. During his playdate with Oliver, he is startled by the family’s dog. Tomás bravely explains how he is feeling, and Oliver patiently comes up with a plan to help his friend feel safe. The two continue their playdate and enjoy an amazing afternoon together.

As both a mom and a teacher, I found Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House refreshing. It carefully

shows that instead of trying to squash a child’s big feelings, we can give them the language and tools to understand and manage their emotions. The story allows Tomás to experience his feelings, validates them, and shows practical ways to feel better. It’s a valuable lesson for children and adults alike: to be patient with those who feel more deeply and to recognize the importance of expressing our emotions.

The story is accompanied by bright illustrations that provide a cheerful backdrop to its

educational and emotionally sensitive themes. The artwork creates a positive world for young readers to become absorbed in, with thoughtful details like posters reading "I am unique & special" and "Reach for your dreams." Words are incredibly powerful in shaping young minds, and surrounding children with affirming phrases can make a world of difference. Gallego-Bernard clearly understands this, offering through her books a safe space for children to simply be ... and feel.

While the book can certainly be enjoyed by all young readers, Gallego-Bernard specifically aims to educate about highly sensitive children (HSCs). In the outro, she provides resources for both parents and children, explaining what it means to be an HSC and offering practical advice, playdate tips, and ten games to build resilience and creativity. She also includes book recommendations for caregivers of HSCs. Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House is more than just a hopeful, playful story. It is an educational resource that promotes patience, understanding, self-expression, and positivity, while celebrating the importance of being different. This book is a must-read for families and teachers who want to nurture empathy and emotional awareness in children.

Tomás Goes to Oliver’s House is also available in Spanish as Tomás Va a la Casa de Oliver.

Review by Britain Powers