"Hello Genius" books don't break down quadratic formulas but instead highlight emotional intelligence with adorable animals. Koala Hugs enfolds readers in a koala family, giving alternative suggestions for kids when confronted with people who want hugs. A child might be too shy or scared to hug someone, or just might not be in the mood. Each page uses bold backgrounds and quick solutions to create a safe world. Otter Feels Overwhelmed uses rhymes and the tiniest little sweat droplets to convey the panic of poor little Otter. It demonstrates how stress spirals until it's wholly unmanageable. Father Otter gives tactics for working through uncomfortable feelings. Both Koala and Otter manage to make tricky situations seem easily understandable.

If something can be understood, it can be dealt with. VERDICT These are pitch-perfect ­picture books to help kids and families handle tougher conversations.