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Help your child relate to a family member with depression
Arthur wants a balloon tells the story of a parent’s depression and the small glimmer of hope that shines through the darkness. This beautiful and gentle tale reminds us that even in the worst situations, there is light and love.
Arthur Wants a Balloon
Written by Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia
Illustrated by Erika Meza
Published by Ups!de Down Books/Trigger Publishing
Arthur’s papa is gloomy, just like the grey and rainy weather. He rushes through the park every morning, past the colourful balloon seller. Arthur wants a balloon so badly – something to keep his spirits up for mama – but papa’s answer is always ‘no’.
When something magical appears at his doorstep one morning, Arthur finds a way to bring a smile to his papa’s face… even if only for a few moments.
Arthur Wants a Balloon is exactly what the world needs right now-a sweet, pull-at-your-heartstrings story that offers hope while addressing the emotional impact of parental depression.
Norene Paulson, author of Benny’s True Colors
This picture book about a parent’s depression has a ray of hope and sunshine at the end. A young reader will grasp the concept that even in the worst situations, there is light and love.
The beautiful artwork, by acclaimed artist Erika Meza, and the palette, which goes from drab to bright as the story progresses, brings this delicate and emotional story to life.
Where can I buy Arthur Wants A Balloon?
The Arthur Wants A Balloon story is available to buy from Amazon in paperback and Kindle Edition.
Understanding emotional wellbeing
It is important for children to understand their own emotional state, as well as the emotional state of others. Building sympathy and empathy from a young age are keys to positive mental health. And wanting to help others in need is a natural human response – especially within children.
Arthur Wants A Balloon brings young readers empathy in abundance, as a poignant story about how a little boy trying to understand his father’s gloomy mood and wanting to help. This insightful book promotes kindness and compassion, especially in the wake of depression. It is a must-read for children whose parents experience mental health challenges.
Lauren Callaghan, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Co-founder and Clinical Director of Trigger Publishing.
About the Author Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia
Elizabeth (Liz) Gilbert Bedia grew up in rural northern Illinois surrounded by fields, blue sky and animals. She went on to become an elementary school teacher, teaching those with special needs, and later worked as an audiologist. While raising her children, she returned to her creative roots and started writing books for children. Liz lives in central Iowa with her husband, two teenagers, and two enormous dogs.
Win an Arthur Wants A Balloon paperback
To help your child relate to a family member with depression, we are fortunate enough to have an additional copy of Arthur Wants A Balloon to giveaway.
Prize: Arthur Wants A Balloon paperback
To enter simply complete the Gleam widget below, all entries are optional and each one completed will gain you more entries into the random draw.
Arthur Wants a Balloon (Totally Booked)
