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.
My Elephant Is Blue Melinda Szymanik, Vasanti Unka
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 . . .
Buy nowMy Journey Starts Here Jazz Thornton, Genevieve Mora
A pretty yet practical guided journal for personal reflection and working on your mental well-being.
Buy nowIt's Not OK to Feel Blue (and other lies) Scarlett Curtis
An anthology of writing from inspirational people on what mental health means to them
Buy nowStand By Me: Helping Your Teen Through Tough Times John Kirwan
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.
Buy nowCharlie Changes Into a Chicken Sam Copeland
The first in a sidesplitting new series about a boy who keeps changing into animals. Perfect for fans of David Walliams and Kid Normal.
Buy nowSee Ya, Simon David Hill
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.
Buy nowStop Surviving Start Fighting Jazz Thornton
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.
Buy now