“The Trembling Tarsier” is a Must-Read for Moms
As moms, we know how overwhelming big emotions can be for our little ones. Whether it’s frustration over a missed playdate or bedtime worries that keep them tossing and turning, helping our kids navigate their feelings is one of our most important jobs. That’s why The Trembling Tarsier, a beautifully written and illustrated children’s book, is a heartwarming must-read for every parent looking for gentle ways to teach emotional resilience.

A Story That Speaks to Little Hearts
Set in the lush rainforests of the Philippines, The Trembling Tarsier tells the story of a tiny tarsier who can’t sleep because of the noisy tourists around her. Her loving mother steps in with a simple yet effective “5-4-3-2-1” grounding technique that uses the five senses to calm her anxious little one. This touching story by Michellan Sarile-Alagao, with captivating illustrations by Enid Din, helps kids—and parents—discover the power of mindfulness in managing worries.
A Simple Tool for Moms and Kids
Many of us have seen our children struggle with anxious feelings, whether it’s first-day-of-school jitters or nighttime fears. What makes The Trembling Tarsier special is that it doesn’t just tell a story—it offers a practical, easy-to-follow exercise that moms can use whenever their kids feel overwhelmed. As author Michellan Sarile-Alagao shares, “I wanted this book to be more than just a bedtime read. It’s a tool for parents and children to explore healthy ways to manage anxiety together.”
Even experts agree! Adrianne Alvarez, co-founder of Mental Health Hour Manila, praises the book for its empowering message:
“This story beautifully portrays the bond between a mother and her daughter as they navigate anxiety together with love, empathetic listening, and mindfulness techniques.”
Why Moms Will Love This Book

Encourages Connection – Reading The Trembling Tarsier together opens up conversations about emotions in a way kids can understand.
Promotes Mindfulness – The story introduces a simple grounding technique that moms can easily use when their kids need calming.
Beautifully Illustrated – The soft, soothing artwork brings the tarsier’s journey to life, making it a joy to read with little ones.
About the Author & Illustrator
Michellan Sarile-Alagao is a writer, educator, and mom of two who advocates for children’s mental health and emotional well-being. Her previous book, The Sad Cat, also tackled themes of emotions and resilience.
Enid Din (Claudine Aranza) is a talented illustrator whose nostalgic, intricate artwork captures the magic of childhood and the beauty of small moments.
Book Details
Title: The Trembling Tarsier
Pages: 32
Release Date: September 2024
Price: P150
Category: Children’s Fiction / Christian Values
As moms, we want to raise strong, emotionally aware kids, and The Trembling Tarsier is a wonderful companion on that journey. Add it to your little one’s bookshelf and let’s help our children embrace their feelings with love, patience, and mindfulness.
It’s good that an early age we are mindful of our kids mental health and emotional behavior. Very timely that you shared this book to Moms out there. In this generation sometimes parents are not mindful of their childrens activities and well being esp if both parents are working.
a nice reco to read, especially momma like me,the more we open every possibilities the more we motivated to learn to our motherhood journey