Suzi Faed (text) and Lisa Coutts (illustration), My Daddy is Different, Empowering Resources, January 2020, 32 pp., RRP $17.00 (hbk), ISBN 9781925592184
This is a story of mental illness in a parent, told delicately through the eyes of a child. It follows the highs and lows of dealing with mental illness, including hospital visits, the loss of normality, the fear, and the parent-child relationship. The book explains in simple language the fact that mental illness is a sickness that can be helped somewhat by medication and it offers hope and connection to other children who face a similar situation.
The story is told delicately and clearly, with illustrations that match the tone of the language. The book is published by Empowering Resources, whose mission is to publish books that nurture, educate and empower children. It is a wonderful addition to education settings and for families experiencing mental illness.
Reviewed by Pamela Ueckerman
