The Awfulizer: Learning to Overcome the Shame Game

In The Awfulizer: Learning to Overcome the Shame Game, author Kristin Maher gives shame a name and face, showing just how real and big it can be for children; how it keeps them feeling isolated and alone, and makes them question their self-worth.

"I feel like there’s a monster in my head. And all he does is say awful things to me. He tells me all the things I am doing wrong and how I am wrong, and it makes me sad and scared."

Shame is a powerful emotion for children, and when they get sucked into the Shame Game and start believing lies about themselves – that they don’t just MAKE mistakes, but they ARE a mistake – their world can become a dark place.

James’ life changes the day he meets The Awfulizer, a strange monster with a giant nose and breath that smells like pickles. The Awfulizer follows James everywhere he goes and reminds him of all the things he has done wrong.

When James finally tells his parents all about The Awfulizer, they help him understand that talking about his feelings gives him a super power. It turns him into The Awesomizer! And James realises that even though The Awfulizer might be big and persistent, up against the Awesomizer, he will always lose.

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"The Awfulizer is a wonderful story to help children understand shame. Mistakes are just a part of growing up, but they don't define us. And they certainly shouldntt make us feel bad or wrong. As a school counselor, I work with many students who fall victim to The Awfulizer, and this is the perfect story to help them realize their inner awesomeness and the power to tackle the shame monster. I highly recommend this book to all parents, caregivers, teachers, and counselors who work with children."
- Carol Miller, School Counsellor

"As a mom and teacher, I always try to send the message to my children and students that each day is a fresh start, especially on days that do not seem to go their way! This book embodies the powerful message of letting mistakes go and allowing each day to be a fresh start. I want my children and students to know that we all make mistakes and mistakes do not define who we are, or our worth. This book is the perfect way to spark discussions and drive home these important messages for our children. "
- Jeanine Schneider, Teacher