Nelly and the Rainbow Umbrella

Nelly and The Rainbow Umbrella

by Rozalind Murray

Nelly is a little mosquito with a big heart and an even bigger imagination. Their mind is always wandering-painting pictures in the clouds and creating stories out of raindrops. But sometimes, their imagination runs too wild, and the sky inside them starts to swirl with worry.

When their thoughts turn stormy, Nelly feels tummy twists and trembling wings.. They imagine thunder that won't stop, lightning that won't fade, and clouds that seem too heavy to lift. Everything feels like too much-until a gentle reminder drifts through the storm:

"Don't believe everything you think."

Then, through the clouds, Nelly finds a rainbow umbrella. Beneath its colours, she learns how to breathe-slowly in, like smelling a flower, and softly out, like blowing a bubble. With every breath, the storm grows quieter, and Nelly's imagination begins to shine again, full of warmth and wonder.

Nelly and The Rainbow Umbrella is a tender, comforting story about overthinking, anxiety, and learning to calm the mind through mindful breathing. With poetic rhythm and soothing illustrations, it helps children recognise their thoughts without fear, teaching that imagination is a gift-especially when guided by kindness and calm.

Part of the Storm Mosquitos series, this beautifully illustrated picture book celebrates emotional resilience, mindfulness, and self-acceptance. Each mosquito in the series represents a unique way we experience and manage emotions, helping children navigate big feelings with compassion and hope.

Perfect for ages 3-8 and ideal for classrooms, counselling settings, or bedtime reading, Nelly's story reminds readers that peace begins with a single breath.

Sometimes, the most powerful magic is learning how to breathe.