Brandon and the Bipolar Bear

Brandon and the Bipolar Bear was the first fictional story available for young children about bipolar disorder. Now revised to keep up with advances in the field, this 24-page book will continue to bring comfort to young ones struggling with this serious illness. By reading the pages of this book, children and adults alike will get a rare glimpse into the private feelings and fears of a bipolar child.

Children with bipolar disorder will be able to identify with Brandon's moods as he cycles between depression and mania. They will be comforted along with Brandon as he learns that he is not the only one who struggles with this inner turmoil. They will be educated as he learns what the illness is, how people get it and why there is hope for him to feel better. This story is appropriate for children between 4 and 11 years of age. However it will also be indispensable to parents, health care workers, teachers, grandparents and anyone else who cares about a child with bipolar disorder. It will increase understanding and awareness of this serious illness.

Changes in this revised version include a positive statement about the abilities of people with bipolar disorder, a more complete treatment plan from the doctor including therapy and interventions at school and acknowledgement that children with bipolar disorder have difficulty accurately processing facial expressions.

"This is an absolutely wonderful book that provides parents an opportunity to help their children with bipolar disorder understand the illness in language that is child friendly and truthful. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful, they depict the depth of emotions that are seen in this illness with unbelievable detail. This book is a MUST HAVE for every child with bipolar disorder and a wonderful addition to every home library. Only through education and knowledge can parents and children develop the skills necessary to successfully fight this very serious neurological brain disorder and empower the child to take control of their illness!"
Dr Gilcher