A Bad Case of Stripes Verified listing

Fitting in can feel like the most important thing in the world—especially when you're a kid. But what happens when trying to please everyone means losing yourself in the process?

A Bad Case of Stripes is a wildly imaginative picture book about Camilla Cream, a girl who loves lima beans—but won’t eat them because she’s afraid of what others will think. One day, her fear of standing out becomes literal: her skin changes colors and patterns based on everyone else’s expectations. Only when she embraces her true self does she begin to heal.

This playful yet powerful story uses humor and vivid visuals to teach kids the importance of authenticity, confidence, and self-acceptance.

🧡 Best for parents who...

• Have a child who struggles with peer pressure or fitting in
• Want to encourage confidence and self-expression
• Appreciate imaginative stories with meaningful lessons
• Are looking for a fun, accessible way to talk about being yourself

💛 Best for kids who...

• Worry about what others think of them
• Feel anxious or overwhelmed by social expectations
• Enjoy silly stories with wild illustrations and a twist of magic
• Are learning to express their likes, dislikes, and identity with pride

🧠 Why It Helps:
A Bad Case of Stripes helps children recognize how people-pleasing and self-doubt can take over—and how choosing to be true to yourself is the first step toward feeling better. It’s a humorous, visually captivating way to explore big themes of identity and self-worth.

💡 What’s Inside:

• A 32-page hardcover with bold, expressive illustrations
• Perfect for ages 4–9 (Preschool to Early Elementary)
• A conversation starter about peer pressure, anxiety, and self-love
• Great for classrooms, school counselors, and family libraries

Because being yourself is the best cure of all.