Leo Roars: A Brave Lion’s Guide to Beating Panic Attacks (Brave Minds: CBT Stories for Children)

Leo Roars: A Brave Lion’s Guide to Beating Panic Attacks

Leo Roars is an evidence-based children’s book for ages 8–12 who experience panic attacks, anxiety, or sudden overwhelming fear.

Combining a warm, engaging story with clinically proven Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) tools, this illustrated chapter book helps children understand panic, why it happens, and how to calm their bodies and minds when fear takes over.

Leo was once the bravest lion in the jungle until a frightening panic attack steals his roar. With guidance from Wise Owl and Elephant, Leo journeys inside his thoughts and feelings to learn how anxiety works and how he can respond differently. Through relatable characters and story-based CBT exercises, children learn to manage panic, challenge scary thoughts, and rebuild confidence.

Each chapter includes:

• Simple CBT techniques children can use

• Practical calming strategies for panic and anxiety

• Guided prompts for parents and caregivers

• Tools that build emotional resilience and confidence

This makes Leo Roars a trusted resource for families, schools, therapists, and parents seeking support while waiting for CAMHS services.

Written by James Callaghan, a BABCP Accredited CBT therapist and Supervisor with over a decade of experience, Leo Roars blends clinical expertise with warmth and compassion.

Expert & Clinical Endorsements

Dr Judith Beck, President of the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy:

“Leo Roars: A Brave Lion’s Guide to Beating Panic Attacks is a wonderful book for children who experience intense anxiety and panic. Written in a readable, accessible style, it is designed for an adult to read — or read with — youth. Most importantly, it teaches children to think about anxiety and panic in a wholly different way, and it equips them with the tools they need to reduce their anxiety and thrive.”

Dr. Laura Magallon, Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Dublin, Ireland:

“Leo Roars, written by James Callaghan, is a warm and accessible introduction to CBT ideas for young children. The story follows Leo, a little lion with big feelings, and gently shows how he learns to understand his thoughts and calm his roars. From a child psychiatrist’s perspective, the book keeps concepts simple without losing therapeutic value.

The illustrations are colourful and expressive, helping children recognise emotional shifts and opening safe conversations about feelings. Overall, it is a lovely, approachable book that parents and clinicians can use to support children learning to manage strong emotions.”

Dr. Alamin Kheir, Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Dublin, Ireland:

“In Leo Roars, this beautifully illustrated story helps children understand what panic really is, how anxiety can take away a sense of bravery, and that it is possible to find strength again.

Through relatable dialogue and practical CBT-style exercises, Leo learns to challenge frightening thoughts, calm his mind, and slowly reclaim his roar. Perfect for children and the adults who support them, this book offers clear, compassionate tools for understanding panic and building emotional resilience. It feels like a warm companion when big feelings feel too scary.”

Why This Book Matters

• Explains panic and anxiety in a child-friendly way

• Teaches CBT techniques proven to reduce panic

• Builds emotional resilience and confidence

• Supports parents with practical guidance

• Suitable for home, school, therapy, and CAMHS-adjacent support

Leo Roars isn’t just a book — it’s a brave step toward calm, understanding, and hope

James Callaghan is a BABCP-accredited CBT Therapist, Supervisor and Trainer. He is an EMDR Consultant, mental health lecturer with over a decade of experience supporting children and families. As Director of Capital Psychotherapy and founder of MindsInSchools.ie, he specialises in turning complex psychological tools into practical, compassionate resources for young people