Manny's Mood Clouds

December 15, 2022
How can Elijah support their brother Manny through his "mood clouds"? Elijah's older brother Manny's emotions change quickly and are so big they seem like colorful clouds above his head: red when he's angry; blue when he's sad and wants to be alone; purple when "he is very panicked and scared of everything"; and yellow when he's "so happy, that he doesn't know what to do with himself." Manny's unpredictable mood shifts are hard on Elijah--"I get scared when I see his yellow cloud turn red without warning." But with the help of their supportive parents, Manny's therapist, and Manny himself, Elijah learns that "we can't control the color of Manny's clouds, but we can try and help him work through his feelings." Examples of helpful activities that siblings can do together are matched with particular mood clouds, giving families ideas of how they can support loved ones who have mood disorders. Alongside Ubidia's lively cartoon illustrations, this picture book sensitively frames Elijah's process in understanding Manny's mood disorder. With the focus on Elijah (depicted with brown skin and short, curly brown hair) rather than Manny (a brown-skinned boy with a high-top fade), this story is more ideal for family members than children with mood disorders themselves. Backmatter, written by licensed clinical psychologist Aimee Daramus, offers tips and resources for adults. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Emphasizing connection and care, this book shines a thoughtful light on children with mood disorders. (Picture book. 4-8)

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