Abstract

If a grownup you love has bipolar disorder, what does that mean? In this friendly guide, 11-year-old Josh tells all about his dad's bipolar, including what mental illness is, and how it can affect patients and their families.

The guide explains in child-friendly terms how different types of bipolar affect people's feelings and behaviour. It is a comforting book that prepares young readers for the hard parts of knowing someone with bipolar, while communicating that bipolar is nothing to be afraid or ashamed of. Providing an excellent starting point for discussion both at home and in the classroom, it also includes a helpful list of recommended sources for additional support.

This book gives hope and is realistic. It gives children and young people a tool to ask for support; it increases their autonomy and offers them a language to explain their experiences. I especially like the recommendations for friends and school. The book is relatable across experiences; it gives a simple explanation or space for wider discussion.
Claire James, Social worker supporting vulnerable children and young people
This is a very good book - I really liked it. All secondary schools should have a copy in their library, along with other books to help children if they notice their parents [or carers] are acting a bit differently than they have in the past. I feel it is a book that incorporated a story with interesting facts. Some children could understand the situation; it could be real life for them and they could relate to it. I highly recommend the book to every child as it will inform them on elements of the real world.
Alessandro (aged 11), who has friends affected by mental ill health and wants to be able to help
Sonia Mainstone-Cotton is a freelance trainer, consultant, nurture worker, and the self-published author of Mummy's Got Bipolar. Sonia's mother has bipolar, and she has over 25 years' experience professionally supporting children whose parents have bipolar.
Bipolar disorder can be a confusing, even scary thing to a child. This charming book does a great job explaining it to young readers, and leaves plenty of room open for discussion.
Lloyd Jones, author of The Princess and the Fog