In the Blue
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that In the Blue is a special book that explores the sensitive subject of depression in a family, by using color. A young girl must navigate life in a different way when her father starts battling depression, which she sees as a big, dark emotion. The story of the daughter's emotional journey and the effect of the dad's mental health issues on the family is told in a developmentally appropriate way that young readers will understand. Themes of the story include big feelings, mental illness, and family love.
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What's the Story?
IN THE BLUE shares the story of mental illness in a family. When a young girl's dad goes from having "bright and yellow" feelings to "frozen, icy blue" feelings, she observes an upsetting change in his behavior. Not knowing how to deal with this change, she starts having red feelings of frustration -- while kicking and screaming. She learns that this isn't helpful, and goes with her mom and dad to get him help and support. The family learns that with patience and care, bright feelings can return after the darkness.
Is It Any Good?
This powerful, eye-opening picture book is an emotional and realistic view of life with a parent who struggles with mental illness, seen from the child's perspective. Author Erin Hourigan's experience with her father inspired the story.
In the Blue shows that adults don't have to shy away from discussing scary and overwhelming topics with young children. They can do so in an age-appropriate way.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk to kids about how In the Blue shows different emotions people experience. Who do you talk to about your big emotions?
What was your favorite part of the story? Why?
How are you feeling today? What color matches your emotion? Draw or paint a picture with the color to express yourself.
Book Details
- Author: Erin Hourigan
- Illustrator: Erin Hourigan
- Genre: Picture Book
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Empathy
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: May 3, 2022
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Hardback
- Last updated: May 9, 2022
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For kids who love stories about families and mental illness
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