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Article  •  3 May 2021

 

Good Books about Tough Topics

Figuring out how to talk to children about difficult emotions can sometimes feel impossible. Books can offer a good gateway to starting these conversations. Here are some books that might help you to navigate those tricky topics.

Featured Titles

My Elephant Is Blue
An award-winning, quirky story about a child who is stuck carrying around an elephant, wondering if they will ever feel light and free again . . .
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My Journey Starts Here
A pretty yet practical guided journal for personal reflection and working on your mental well-being.
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DOT
A little book to help anyone (big or small) take a moment and some nice, deep breaths.
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It's Not OK to Feel Blue (and other lies)
An anthology of writing from inspirational people on what mental health means to them
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Stand By Me: Helping Your Teen Through Tough Times
Charting John Kirwan's personal experiences as a father, and featuring the real voices of young people today, Stand By Me investigates issues around teenage mental health, with a focus on depression and anxiety.
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Charlie Changes Into a Chicken
The first in a sidesplitting new series about a boy who keeps changing into animals. Perfect for fans of David Walliams and Kid Normal.
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See Ya, Simon
Funny, moving and devastatingly honest, See Ya, Simon is a New Zealand favourite that has won several awards and has been translated into seven languages. A must read for all teenagers.
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Wonder
A special tenth anniversary edition of the unforgettable, life-affirming and internationally bestselling novel starring August Pullman - a boy who's desperate to blend in, but is destined to stand out.
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Stop Surviving Start Fighting
A hard-hitting, thought-provoking account of surviving suicide attempts and moving on to a better life, which provides practical help and inspiration to anyone affected by depression or suicide.
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