Danny and the Blue Cloud: Coping With Childhood Depression

by James M. Foley

$8.99

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Author: James M. Foley

Publisher: Magination Press

Hardcover:
ISBN 10: 9781433821035
ISBN 13: 978-1433821035

"I like this book! I learned all sorts of ways to be happy when I’m upset.'—Kids' BookBuzz, Brian, Age 5

Danny was born under a blue cloud. He didn’t know why, but sometimes the cloud made him cry. Some days he didn’t want to get out of bed. Some days he was one big GROWL!

With the help of Barnaby the rabbit, Danny learns to think more positive thoughts, feel better about himself, and dance his way into a better mood! He practices Barnaby’s “Feel Good Rules” until his cloud turns lighter and brighter.

Eventually, Danny learns that he has the power to turn even the biggest, bluest cloud into a beautiful rainbow!

Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers with more information about childhood depression and strategies to help children cope.

From School Library Journal

K-Gr 2—Danny is a young bear who finds himself in a perpetual state of sadness, a "blue cloud"—he is unable to enjoy play, is often in a bad mood, and wants to stay in bed all day. While he receives encouraging remarks from his mother, Danny is eventually approached by Barnaby Rabbit, who is set on Danny being "defunkified." So begins the process of using motivational movements like hopping and dancing, and positive mantras ("Think GOOD things about yourself, even if it feels easier to think bad things") to cheer Danny up. Eventually—after following the "feel-good rules"—Danny is playing and interacting with his friends, and the blue cloud that lived above his head becomes a rainbow. The twee illustrations of woodland creatures will be a familiar sight and comfort to readers. Children do experience depression, and the back matter addresses strategies for caregivers explained in simple language that is not overwhelming or full of jargon. Because the book is aimed at a younger age group, it treats the subject very simplistically and allows no ambiguity. But many children won't find it that simple, and parents might want to discuss the challenges of applying these rules throughout their days. VERDICT This is a useful addition to parenting collections. Library staff may want to encourage parents to read the book through first, including the endnotes, to decide how best to introduce and discuss the story.—Michelle Anderson, Tauranga City Libraries, New Zealand

Review

“illustrations of woodland creatures will be a familiar sight and comfort to readers. Children do experience depression, and the back matter addresses strategies for caregivers explained in a simple language that is not overwhelming…” —School Library Journal

“The author James M. Foley is a licensed psychologist, experienced in treating children. So his stand-in in the story, Barnaby, knows what he’s talking about…. Danny and the Blue Cloud could be an invaluable resource for children who are coping with depression or know someone who is, and perhaps it could help the adults who read it with them develop some more compassion and understanding, as well.” —Portland Book Review

"I like this book! I learned all sorts of ways to be happy when I’m upset.'—Kids' BookBuzz, Brian, Age 5

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Danny and the Blue Cloud: Coping With Childhood Depression