Mental health topics are much more widely discussed for this generation of children. Introducing young readers to the concepts of emotions and mental health can be highly beneficial, as it educates them, prepares them to support others, and provides valuable life lessons. This blog post will share five exceptional chapter books to read with your children that are both entertaining, and effective at fostering empathy regarding mental health.
1. Better With Butter
This book, written by Victoria Sutherland, follows the journey of a 12 year old girl who is trying to navigate her anxiety and insecurities. She makes friends with a fainting goat who panics in the same way she does. Her relationship, and caring anxiety impacts people and what it is like internally to work through it.
2. Fish In a Tree
Written by Linda Mulally Hunt, this book is about a sixth grade girl who is bright and creative and also has undiagnosed dyslexia. A caring teacher finally figures it out and helps her discover her strengths.
3. Guts
This is an autobiographical graphic novel by Raina Telegemier, and my personal favorite. This book is very relatable and includes issues such as bullying, puberty, anxiety, and emetophobia (the fear of throwing up). This book normalized therapy and has a great sense of humor as well.
4. The Science of Unbreakable Things
Sensitively written by Tae Keller, this book hope to her mother by trying to win a competition. This book is inspiring and has wonderful characters.
5. Iveliz Explains It All
A powerful novel by Andrea Beatriz Arango that deals with grief and trauma all while navigating school and pre-teen issues. The story follows a girl that just moved from Puerto Rico and has to learn to advocate for herself.
