What do you think?
Rate this book
Astro is Down in the Dumps: Astro's Adventures
This fun and entertaining book, Astro is Down in the Dumps, was created to give children the skills they need to build resilience and cope with depression and anxiety. The version was created with Kindle Kids Books. When you tap on the images or the text special pop-up boxes appear. Astro is feeling so sad and blue he can’t get out of bed. Then there’s a knock at the door… who could that be? In each section, one of Astro’s friends drops by and tells him what they do to cheer up when they are feeling sad. Alfie paints, Stella talks to someone, Dotty listens to music and Digger eats fresh, healthy food. There are worksheets at the back of the book for further ideas and ways of extending the skills presented in this book. As well, there are telephone numbers for direct access to helplines. Written in verse and with stunning full-color illustrations, this book is designed so that it can be shared in the classroom and at home. All monies raised from the sale of this book go to sending a free copy to each school and library.
- GenresChildrens
76 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2015
73 people want to read
About the author
Susan Day
109 books41 followersAlthough born overseas, Susan calls Australia home. She is an arts therapist practitioner, an educator, author and an artist. Being creative and sharing the power of art with others is dream come true. Susan is also passionate about helping people with trauma, has extensive experience in the disability sector, takes an interest in pet care and has trained hundreds of dogs using her own positive, reward-based method. She dabbles in watercolours, loves gardening (as backbreaking as it is), and sometimes just loves to watch a good program on the telly.
Most of all, she loves to write. Whether it is creating art therapy books, creating stories in the Astro's Adventures series or writing non-fiction books about dogs and their care, Susan has made a profession out of the written word. Her collection of books is a reflection of her diverse passions. She's also super-good at time management and feels blessed to have the ability to share her passions.
Most of all, she loves to write. Whether it is creating art therapy books, creating stories in the Astro's Adventures series or writing non-fiction books about dogs and their care, Susan has made a profession out of the written word. Her collection of books is a reflection of her diverse passions. She's also super-good at time management and feels blessed to have the ability to share her passions.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 16, 2015
This is a great book. It reminds me so much of Dr. Seuss, with the rhyming and the journey this poor pup takes to happiness. Astro is a sad little puppy, but he has friends with great ideas to cheer him up.
This is something kids really need to read. Because depression and sadness is a real thing, and it's good to find answers to sadness early in life, so you can deal with it in a healthy way
In this book, Astro finds that sometimes food can cheer you up. Or exercise. Or music. Or dancing. Or just plain going outside and basking in the sun. There are so many ways to be happy. Just choose one, and don't just wallow in your sadness.
The artwork in this book was awesome. I can't draw at all. But in this story, not only can the illustrator draw better than me, but Astro can as well! A dog. A dog can draw and paint better than me.
A dog... Grrr. Okay, now I'm down in the dumps like Astro. So I'm just going to go outside and dance in the sun. Maybe I'll find a friend, and we can dance together.
Happiness is what you make it, and this book shows you many ways to kick the sadness out the door.
This is something kids really need to read. Because depression and sadness is a real thing, and it's good to find answers to sadness early in life, so you can deal with it in a healthy way
In this book, Astro finds that sometimes food can cheer you up. Or exercise. Or music. Or dancing. Or just plain going outside and basking in the sun. There are so many ways to be happy. Just choose one, and don't just wallow in your sadness.
The artwork in this book was awesome. I can't draw at all. But in this story, not only can the illustrator draw better than me, but Astro can as well! A dog. A dog can draw and paint better than me.
A dog... Grrr. Okay, now I'm down in the dumps like Astro. So I'm just going to go outside and dance in the sun. Maybe I'll find a friend, and we can dance together.
Happiness is what you make it, and this book shows you many ways to kick the sadness out the door.
February 13, 2015
I got a coupon code for Smashwords to get this book for free. These are just my honest thoughts on it.
Told in rhyme, Astro is Down in the Dumps By Susan Day is a book about a dog who is feeling down. It's designed to encourage youngsters to try all sorts of new things when they're feeling upset or depressed. When Astro the dog is feeling down, he takes visits from all his friends who inform him what they do when they feel upset. By the end of the book, Astro is feeling much happier!
It's a lovely book, with beautiful illustrations. Astro's story, though a little cliche, is well told and quite inspiring. I admit, I kind of thought it was rude for the friends to all visit and tell him what to do. I know that when I'm in that kind of mood, I don't like it when people tell me that I should be doing things I don't like/ or aren't good at. However, I know they were just trying to help and I admire Astro's patience with them. I think that the main reason Astro was feeling better was just the chance to have talked to his friends.
It's quite a nice book.
Told in rhyme, Astro is Down in the Dumps By Susan Day is a book about a dog who is feeling down. It's designed to encourage youngsters to try all sorts of new things when they're feeling upset or depressed. When Astro the dog is feeling down, he takes visits from all his friends who inform him what they do when they feel upset. By the end of the book, Astro is feeling much happier!
It's a lovely book, with beautiful illustrations. Astro's story, though a little cliche, is well told and quite inspiring. I admit, I kind of thought it was rude for the friends to all visit and tell him what to do. I know that when I'm in that kind of mood, I don't like it when people tell me that I should be doing things I don't like/ or aren't good at. However, I know they were just trying to help and I admire Astro's patience with them. I think that the main reason Astro was feeling better was just the chance to have talked to his friends.
It's quite a nice book.
April 29, 2015
Astro is an anthromorphic dog with depression. He really doesn't feel like doing anything except staying in bed. He just feels sad today! But then he gets a bit of a surprise when several friends stop by and tell him what they do to help cheer themselves up when they are feeling blue. From painting to music to simply talking to someone you care about over the phone. None of these things will "cure" Astro's depression but they will definitely help him get through it!
I think the author did a fantastic job of explaining depression in a simple manner and how young children can cope with it through a fun, rhyming story. I also like that the book showed that it's okay if a fun activity doesn't "cure" your depression. There is a journal with questions and space to write in the back.
The illustrations are fun and light and even made me chuckle at times. (The part with the paint was particularly cute.)
I really think every counselor, child therapist, and teacher should have this book on hand. Great job, Susan Day!
I think the author did a fantastic job of explaining depression in a simple manner and how young children can cope with it through a fun, rhyming story. I also like that the book showed that it's okay if a fun activity doesn't "cure" your depression. There is a journal with questions and space to write in the back.
The illustrations are fun and light and even made me chuckle at times. (The part with the paint was particularly cute.)
I really think every counselor, child therapist, and teacher should have this book on hand. Great job, Susan Day!
February 26, 2015
Day's Astro books are charming, but this one is something special.
Designed to educate young children in defensive strategies against depression, the book follows a day in the life of Astro, a dog who has become depressed. Astro's dog friends arrive to visit him, and each one describes a technique that can be used to overcome or prevent depression.
The theory behind Astro's friends' suggestions is all very sound, and the verse format, as well as being quite delightful, will go a long way to ensure the lessons learned remain in a child's memory. The technique of 'teaching verses' is a very old one, and it's old because it is effective.
The illustrations are plentiful, suitable to the text and well done, and there is just nothing to criticise about the work, particularly when one reaches the end and finds an activity sheet that can be used by each child to reinforce what has been learned, personalise it to his own situation and create a ready-made action plan for himself to use should he ever fall prey to depression.
This is a truly wonderful resource for any parent. A gift that can help to make your child proof against one of the most frightening threats of modern life.
In the back matter, I learned that proceeds from the sale of this book will be used to fund a project to provide copies to every school and library in Australia. I hope the project succeeds, because it is a truly valuable book and should be disseminated as widely as possible.
Designed to educate young children in defensive strategies against depression, the book follows a day in the life of Astro, a dog who has become depressed. Astro's dog friends arrive to visit him, and each one describes a technique that can be used to overcome or prevent depression.
The theory behind Astro's friends' suggestions is all very sound, and the verse format, as well as being quite delightful, will go a long way to ensure the lessons learned remain in a child's memory. The technique of 'teaching verses' is a very old one, and it's old because it is effective.
The illustrations are plentiful, suitable to the text and well done, and there is just nothing to criticise about the work, particularly when one reaches the end and finds an activity sheet that can be used by each child to reinforce what has been learned, personalise it to his own situation and create a ready-made action plan for himself to use should he ever fall prey to depression.
This is a truly wonderful resource for any parent. A gift that can help to make your child proof against one of the most frightening threats of modern life.
In the back matter, I learned that proceeds from the sale of this book will be used to fund a project to provide copies to every school and library in Australia. I hope the project succeeds, because it is a truly valuable book and should be disseminated as widely as possible.
April 11, 2015
Imagine a book which gives you as a parent or teacher a chance to open up discussion on depression with your child.
Whether they are suffering depression, feeling sad or they are trying to understand a friend who often ‘feels down in the dumps’.
The book Astro is Down in the Dumps written and illustrated by Susan Day, is about a dog named Astro who is feeling down in the dumps. He is in bed when his doggy friends visit with suggestions of what they do when they are feeling sad.
The beauty of this book is that like in real life there is not one answer that suits all. Ideas from exercise to eating fresh food are offered to Astro in a fun way.
Like many skills, children need to learn to understand their emotions. It is okay to feel sad whether it is about an injury, not having a friend to play with or because your favourite toy is lost. Astro is Down in the Dumps is a chance to build resilience strategies and let them know they are not alone, many people (and dogs) feel sad too.
For more information on how to help a child using Astro is Down in the Dumps head to http://abcjenny.com/2015/04/11/astro-...
Whether they are suffering depression, feeling sad or they are trying to understand a friend who often ‘feels down in the dumps’.
The book Astro is Down in the Dumps written and illustrated by Susan Day, is about a dog named Astro who is feeling down in the dumps. He is in bed when his doggy friends visit with suggestions of what they do when they are feeling sad.
The beauty of this book is that like in real life there is not one answer that suits all. Ideas from exercise to eating fresh food are offered to Astro in a fun way.
Like many skills, children need to learn to understand their emotions. It is okay to feel sad whether it is about an injury, not having a friend to play with or because your favourite toy is lost. Astro is Down in the Dumps is a chance to build resilience strategies and let them know they are not alone, many people (and dogs) feel sad too.
For more information on how to help a child using Astro is Down in the Dumps head to http://abcjenny.com/2015/04/11/astro-...
May 13, 2015
There is a very real and worrying trend amongst young children – the rise of depression and anxiety. Equipping children from an early age with a set of strategies to ward off issues causing anxiety can only benefit them in the longer term.
The aim of the book is to provide such a set of activities so children can deal with the everyday issues confronting them in this fast paced, complex, exciting world full of opportunities, contradictions and dangers as they navigate their way to becoming responsible functioning adults.
The creativity of Susan, directed and focused on this issue, has produced a short but to the point book based around her well established Astro character and her real love of dogs.
The book is an excellent idea and a much needed addition for parents, guardians and teachers in helping children develop.
The issues of child depressions and increased anxiety are world-wide. Susan has a very laudable goal to give every school a copy. To help her succeed in getting her book into every school and library you can donate here: http://www.gofundme.com/kyuags I wish her every good fortune in her endeavour.
The aim of the book is to provide such a set of activities so children can deal with the everyday issues confronting them in this fast paced, complex, exciting world full of opportunities, contradictions and dangers as they navigate their way to becoming responsible functioning adults.
The creativity of Susan, directed and focused on this issue, has produced a short but to the point book based around her well established Astro character and her real love of dogs.
The book is an excellent idea and a much needed addition for parents, guardians and teachers in helping children develop.
The issues of child depressions and increased anxiety are world-wide. Susan has a very laudable goal to give every school a copy. To help her succeed in getting her book into every school and library you can donate here: http://www.gofundme.com/kyuags I wish her every good fortune in her endeavour.
February 9, 2015
Congratulations to Susan Day for acknowledging the too common problem of children copying with anxiety and depression, in such an easy to read and understandable way. Astro the lovable dog is the main character who is supposed by his canine friends who provide support and ideas that help Astro to get out of the dumps. With verse and gentle colour illustrations by Susan, the book flows very well. The layout is fresh and clean. I believe this book is also a help to adults, as well as children, who can take on some of the ways to lift their spirits. I could not help but smile as I read through the book. It has that ‘feel good’ feeling about it. The worksheets and contact numbers at the end of the book are helpful. Very well written and illustrated. I wish Susan Day every success in getting a free copy to each school and library in the country to help our young people who are struggling with anxiety and depression.
Reviewed by Linda James, Author and Counsellor.
Reviewed by Linda James, Author and Counsellor.
February 19, 2015
Astro Is Down In The Dumps by Susan Day is an adorable children's book filled with positive messages and lessons. Precious dialog, awesome rhymes, beautiful illustrations and clever ways to teach children how to deal with sadness and bad feelings.
The author makes dealing with depression a doable thing and does so with inspiring alternatives. This book cheered me up in seconds flat. Even though I am not a child I saw the wisdom in her inspiring suggestions.
I loved the questions and answers at the end. So educational and at the same time fun. I could see this book used in classrooms and libraries. Beautifully done. Loved it!
Quote ~
“Now, you don’t know that at all,
Until you’ve given someone a call.
Talk to a grown up or a friend,
And this will help your sadness end.”
“Sometimes talking to someone,
Can make your day a lot less glum.
It’s like receiving a gift,
When sadness is given a lift.”
The author makes dealing with depression a doable thing and does so with inspiring alternatives. This book cheered me up in seconds flat. Even though I am not a child I saw the wisdom in her inspiring suggestions.
I loved the questions and answers at the end. So educational and at the same time fun. I could see this book used in classrooms and libraries. Beautifully done. Loved it!
Quote ~
“Now, you don’t know that at all,
Until you’ve given someone a call.
Talk to a grown up or a friend,
And this will help your sadness end.”
“Sometimes talking to someone,
Can make your day a lot less glum.
It’s like receiving a gift,
When sadness is given a lift.”
March 16, 2015
My 7 year old and I recommend this delightful tale of hope and inspiration. It is about a dog who is laid up with depression and how his friends rally around and engage Astro in activities to cheer him up.
The beautiful illustrations (also by Susan Day) of dogs dancing and wearing clothes and headphones made us laugh and fit well in the light-hearted writing style which deals with this serious topic. We also enjoyed the rhyming prose, with its variety of words such as zeal and flawed.
From a reading level point of view, it would be at about an 8 or 9 year old average level and is also perfect for parents to read to children as young as 6 or 7. Young children may not understand the concept of depression, but they do know the feeling of sad and will enjoy the activities at the back of the book.
It is a fun read with great intentions and I wish the author the best of luck with it.
NB: I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
The beautiful illustrations (also by Susan Day) of dogs dancing and wearing clothes and headphones made us laugh and fit well in the light-hearted writing style which deals with this serious topic. We also enjoyed the rhyming prose, with its variety of words such as zeal and flawed.
From a reading level point of view, it would be at about an 8 or 9 year old average level and is also perfect for parents to read to children as young as 6 or 7. Young children may not understand the concept of depression, but they do know the feeling of sad and will enjoy the activities at the back of the book.
It is a fun read with great intentions and I wish the author the best of luck with it.
NB: I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2015
Astro is Down in the Dumps is a book about a depressed dog who doesn't want to get out of bed. Then, one by one his buddies start coming by to give suggestions on how he can perk up.
I am reviewing this as a reader looking for entertainment and as an elementary school counselor looking for another resource. On the first count, the book is engaging. The message is delivered in a child-friendly way and the drawings are great. My only criticism of it on this end is that the rhyming and tempo was a bit awkward at times and made me stumble a bit. Overall, though, this was the exception.
From the professional side of me: the concept of this is great. Sometimes I have a tough time teaching little ones coping skills, and this book would be a big help. The worksheets at the end of the book are also great. I can see myself using this in my work. From a mental health side of things, my criticism is that depression is only shown as the gloomy, can't get out of bed type, and not the angry type so often seen in young boys. However, that's not enough to dissuade me from using this book with my kids.
So, the bottom line: I'm an elementary school counselor and would gladly use this with my students.
I am reviewing this as a reader looking for entertainment and as an elementary school counselor looking for another resource. On the first count, the book is engaging. The message is delivered in a child-friendly way and the drawings are great. My only criticism of it on this end is that the rhyming and tempo was a bit awkward at times and made me stumble a bit. Overall, though, this was the exception.
From the professional side of me: the concept of this is great. Sometimes I have a tough time teaching little ones coping skills, and this book would be a big help. The worksheets at the end of the book are also great. I can see myself using this in my work. From a mental health side of things, my criticism is that depression is only shown as the gloomy, can't get out of bed type, and not the angry type so often seen in young boys. However, that's not enough to dissuade me from using this book with my kids.
So, the bottom line: I'm an elementary school counselor and would gladly use this with my students.
February 19, 2015
Astro is Down in the Dumps is one of many in the Astro stories. This particular one deals with difficult but far too prevalent childhood affliction – depression. Whether it’s situational, trauma induced or biological, childhood mood disorders need to be treated as soon as they are recognized. This book Astro is Down in the Dumps can be a useful tool when working with younger children. The suggestions are right out of the cognitive behavioral playbook. The rhythmic tone and poetic style lend themselves to keep the attention of younger children, while the content stands on its own, perhaps for children up to age ten, depending on their developmental level, as advanced nine-and ten-year-olds might not relate. The activities and hotlines —UK-USA-Australia—provide much needed supports for the book. I would recommend this book for anyone who has a child, or that works with children in any capacity. Reviewed by JR Wirth – author and psychotherapist.
March 27, 2015
As a person who has battled depression since I was a child, I am now a great fan of Susan Day. “Astro is Down in the Dumps” defines the feeling of being down or blue, and it gives a child permission to do those things that will help her feel better.
Astro is a dog in red pajamas, and he is depressed. He doesn’t want to get out of bed, so his friends come to visit him and share the things they like to do when they feel blue. The suggestions are the common disciplines of eating right, walking, listening to music, writing, art, and talking to a friend.
The narrative is told in child-appropriate rhyme. I think the rhythm will help a struggling child remember to get up and write or draw or just go outside. The artwork is colorful and adds some humor to the story.
I recommend this book particularly for the child who has lost a family member and needs some help dealing with the normal depression of grieving.
Astro is a dog in red pajamas, and he is depressed. He doesn’t want to get out of bed, so his friends come to visit him and share the things they like to do when they feel blue. The suggestions are the common disciplines of eating right, walking, listening to music, writing, art, and talking to a friend.
The narrative is told in child-appropriate rhyme. I think the rhythm will help a struggling child remember to get up and write or draw or just go outside. The artwork is colorful and adds some humor to the story.
I recommend this book particularly for the child who has lost a family member and needs some help dealing with the normal depression of grieving.
March 29, 2015
Astro Is Down In The Dumps is a fun and educational book for younger readers that encourages interaction and friendship.
When Astro is feeling down his friends stop by to cheer him up... Each friend has a practical, fun suggestion for getting over the blues. Having worked with children suffering from anxiety and depression, I found the suggestions for cheering one’s self up very practical and convenient. Susan Day’s illustrations are amusing and definitely cheerful. The book is written in rhyme which seems to make it even more accessible to children. After the story is told, the author has included sensible, entertaining, interactive activities for children that could be applied at home or in the classroom.
All in all, Astro is a sympathetic character many children will be able to relate to. Susan’s storytelling style is upbeat and charming. Kids, parents and teachers will certainly enjoy this book.
When Astro is feeling down his friends stop by to cheer him up... Each friend has a practical, fun suggestion for getting over the blues. Having worked with children suffering from anxiety and depression, I found the suggestions for cheering one’s self up very practical and convenient. Susan Day’s illustrations are amusing and definitely cheerful. The book is written in rhyme which seems to make it even more accessible to children. After the story is told, the author has included sensible, entertaining, interactive activities for children that could be applied at home or in the classroom.
All in all, Astro is a sympathetic character many children will be able to relate to. Susan’s storytelling style is upbeat and charming. Kids, parents and teachers will certainly enjoy this book.
April 11, 2015
I’ve just finished reading this book. I really like it that the author did really good with writing the story - it comes with rhymes, so you’ll enjoy reading it without being bored. I think it is suitable for the pre-school children. The story tells about Astro, a puppy who once felt sad and blue and didn’t know what to do to blow his bad feelings away. Then his friends came one by one suggesting him to do something to cheer him up. The plot is simple as well as the theme.
Reading this book is a great way to teach our children how to express their feelings! We don’t want to force our kids to tell us how they were doing their day and how to face their problems, but the book could inspire them. You’ll want to read it by yourself to find the whole story. Definitely recommended for parents!
Reading this book is a great way to teach our children how to express their feelings! We don’t want to force our kids to tell us how they were doing their day and how to face their problems, but the book could inspire them. You’ll want to read it by yourself to find the whole story. Definitely recommended for parents!
February 17, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Susan Day's, Astro is Down in the Dumps! It is an easy, fun read for kids but further, it addresses a critical issue for many children which is learning to cope with sadness. We all experience feeling down at times but to learn early in life real tools to use to feel better, would save many from therapy bills and medications later in life, I think. Through the use of poetry and rhyme, Susan teaches kids to eat well, exercise, ask for help, journal and other ways to feel better. Bravo Susan Day for a wonderful work on a crucial topic!Astro is Down in the Dumps
February 25, 2015
Uplifting Children’s Book
This picture book employs a unique approach to a serious problem affecting some children. Through the use of beautiful illustrations and engaging rhymes, author Susan Day helps children suffering from depression or anxiety, discover the tools to understand and alleviate the symptoms of their condition.
This book is useful for parents, teachers, or therapists helping the young sufferers. There are worksheets and further information at the end of the book. Also, to quote the author, “Funds raised from the sale of this book go towards sending a free copy to each school and library in the country.”
Even if your child doesn’t suffer from anxiety or depression, this book would be a great way to understand and empathize with those that do.
This picture book employs a unique approach to a serious problem affecting some children. Through the use of beautiful illustrations and engaging rhymes, author Susan Day helps children suffering from depression or anxiety, discover the tools to understand and alleviate the symptoms of their condition.
This book is useful for parents, teachers, or therapists helping the young sufferers. There are worksheets and further information at the end of the book. Also, to quote the author, “Funds raised from the sale of this book go towards sending a free copy to each school and library in the country.”
Even if your child doesn’t suffer from anxiety or depression, this book would be a great way to understand and empathize with those that do.
May 20, 2015
I have worked with young children with multiple diagnoses, often depressed, and the story of a 'down in the dumps' dog will be easy for children to relate to. Friends suggest a variety of ways to help Astro, which should also be easy for children to relate to and enjoy. Some of the rhyming was off, and the text needed a few more illustrations. I'm glad writers like Susan are trying help troubled children find ways to express their feelings and overcome their sadness. It's a great tool for parents or other adults to try to reach their child indirectly and allow them to want to them join in on the activities at the back of the book. I applaud Susan's effort, care, and writing for troubled children.
March 28, 2015
This is a great book. I am dealing with a depressed little boy this morning and we just read this book. It is giving him a chance to talk a bit. We are discussing ways to make him feel better. He says he has a friend who feels worse than him and now he knows that you can help a friend and that friends and family can help you. I am giving this a 5 star review. Thank you susan Day.
An Appreciatie Great grandmother
An Appreciatie Great grandmother
May 11, 2015
My kids are too old now for this type of book, but I'll definitely keep it for when I have grandkids. I loved this book. I can't tell you how many children's books that I read to my kids that were pure drivel! This book covered a difficult topic, was nicely illustrated (I really enjoyed the simplicity of the drawings. Kids today are overly stimulated by computer generated crap), and the way the characters came together to help their friend. This book is a winner!
April 7, 2015
I skim read this book and enjoyed it. Asro is down in the dumps and his friends come and suggest a number of different ways to help him feel better. One of the things I enjoyed most was this variety of solutions as there is no one size fits all solution to feeling better when you're feeling down. It also encourages the reader to keep trying different things to find what works best for you.
April 18, 2015
This picture book tells a story that gives children ideas to overcome feeling down. It is an excellent resource for teachers and parents to talk to kids about different strategies to lift themselves out of feeling low or anxious. It also helps those children who rarely feel low to understand that some people feel down for no apparent reason. The story encourages empathy and compassion.
February 9, 2015
This is a fantastic book, which is well-written, and full of some excellent ideas to help children - and adults - deal with depression. The verse flows well, and is easy to read, while also being very informative.
May 11, 2015
I love this book my kids had fun reading it. I recommend this book for people with kids who are sad or just having a bad day. It will cheer them up and gives them ideas to help with sadness.
February 19, 2015
First, I would like to commend Ms. Day for writing a book encouraging children to overcome depression.
Her efforts are definitely worth 5 stars. She is passionate about writing children's books featuring furry friends; however, I am just not able to give her a great review on this particular book.
The formatting was off but it could have been due the free eBook copy I received for reviewing this book. I looked inside the book on Amazon and from what I could see, the product they carry has a better layout.
As I read the story, which is a poem, I could not get into the rhythm of the rhyme.
Now, I am no English professor, but I feel the stanzas or couplets (or whatever they're called) were supposed to contain the same rhyming meter and/or number of syllables. Perhaps, it was just Ms. Day's style not to do this or she was writing some form of free verse,. Regardless, I found it hard to read. Since this book is meant to be read to or by children, it may be difficult for them to read it as well.
I even read the story again; this time, not focusing on the rhythm, but I just couldn't help myself.
It is a clever story but it just didn't flow as well as I feel it could have.
I believe that Ms. Day's heart is in the right place and finding ways to explain difficult subject matter to children is very important.
Writing children's books is no easy feat. I illustrated a book about fifteen years ago and, due to the complexities in the editing process of how to best write a book to help teach children about reporting all forms of abuse, the book was never published. The editor had it scrutinized by psychiatrists, child psychologists, and social workers, and after many rewrites, it just ended up tucked away in a drawer.
However, they did use the character I drew (a beagle dressed in a Karate gee) for their website.
Also, I suffer from an anxiety disorder, and it takes a lot more than my friends popping in (which they don't do) to fix it. At some point, even children need to speak to a professional, and in some cases, medication is needed.
Her efforts are definitely worth 5 stars. She is passionate about writing children's books featuring furry friends; however, I am just not able to give her a great review on this particular book.
The formatting was off but it could have been due the free eBook copy I received for reviewing this book. I looked inside the book on Amazon and from what I could see, the product they carry has a better layout.
As I read the story, which is a poem, I could not get into the rhythm of the rhyme.
Now, I am no English professor, but I feel the stanzas or couplets (or whatever they're called) were supposed to contain the same rhyming meter and/or number of syllables. Perhaps, it was just Ms. Day's style not to do this or she was writing some form of free verse,. Regardless, I found it hard to read. Since this book is meant to be read to or by children, it may be difficult for them to read it as well.
I even read the story again; this time, not focusing on the rhythm, but I just couldn't help myself.
It is a clever story but it just didn't flow as well as I feel it could have.
I believe that Ms. Day's heart is in the right place and finding ways to explain difficult subject matter to children is very important.
Writing children's books is no easy feat. I illustrated a book about fifteen years ago and, due to the complexities in the editing process of how to best write a book to help teach children about reporting all forms of abuse, the book was never published. The editor had it scrutinized by psychiatrists, child psychologists, and social workers, and after many rewrites, it just ended up tucked away in a drawer.
However, they did use the character I drew (a beagle dressed in a Karate gee) for their website.
Also, I suffer from an anxiety disorder, and it takes a lot more than my friends popping in (which they don't do) to fix it. At some point, even children need to speak to a professional, and in some cases, medication is needed.
March 1, 2015
"Astro is down in the dumps" is styled as a kind of self-help book for kids. Astro's friends take turns to come to visit him when he is feeling sad, and each one suggests a different way of making him feel happier. The suggestions made in the book seem very practical, and focus on doing things (painting, listening to music, dancing, etc.), not keeping things to yourself (talking to someone or writing things down) and even eating healthily - suggestions that could benefit readers of all ages, not just kids.
The illustrations are light, colourful & playful. It’s easy to tell the illustrator is a dog-lover! Also the activities at the end of the story are a good idea, making the book an interactive experience, rather than just passive reading - which ties in well with the theme of the book as a whole.
On the down side, I feel the illustrations are somewhat let down by the text. I found the rhythm uneven and the rhyming text a bit predictable in places. The fact that the author thanks “everyone who poked and prodded the verse into shape” suggests that the verse had to be forced into shape by committee, rather than flowed naturally!
Also, I’m not sure that a child feeling “down in the dumps” will relate to a phrase like “darkness has stopped the light”, which suggests more deep-lying issues than just feeling a bit sad. Having said that, I’m not a medical professional with experience in such matters.
What is clear, however, is that the author writes with genuine intentions, in an open, positive and practical manner, about a sensitive and difficult subject.
The illustrations are light, colourful & playful. It’s easy to tell the illustrator is a dog-lover! Also the activities at the end of the story are a good idea, making the book an interactive experience, rather than just passive reading - which ties in well with the theme of the book as a whole.
On the down side, I feel the illustrations are somewhat let down by the text. I found the rhythm uneven and the rhyming text a bit predictable in places. The fact that the author thanks “everyone who poked and prodded the verse into shape” suggests that the verse had to be forced into shape by committee, rather than flowed naturally!
Also, I’m not sure that a child feeling “down in the dumps” will relate to a phrase like “darkness has stopped the light”, which suggests more deep-lying issues than just feeling a bit sad. Having said that, I’m not a medical professional with experience in such matters.
What is clear, however, is that the author writes with genuine intentions, in an open, positive and practical manner, about a sensitive and difficult subject.
February 9, 2015
This fun and entertaining book, Astro is Down in the Dumps, was created to give children the skills they need to build resilience and cope with depression and anxiety.
Astro is feeling so sad and blue he can’t get out of bed. Then there’s a knock at the door… who could that be?
In each section, one of Astro’s friends drops by and tells him what they do to cheer up when they are feeling sad. Alfie paints, Stella talks to someone, Dotty listens to music and Digger eats fresh, healthy food.
There are worksheets at the back of the book for further ideas and ways of extending the skills presented in this book. As well, there are telephone numbers for direct access to helplines.
Written in verse and with stunning full-colour illustrations, this book is designed so that it can be shared in the classroom and at home.
All monies raised from the sale of this book go to sending a free copy to each school and library in the country.
“Kudos to Susan Day for creating such a beautiful book.”
“I think this is fantastic! I absolutely love it. It would be the perfect book for our clients to read with their children to improve their coping skills and resilience. This is the best kid’s book I’ve ever seen. I’m so impressed.”
Astro is feeling so sad and blue he can’t get out of bed. Then there’s a knock at the door… who could that be?
In each section, one of Astro’s friends drops by and tells him what they do to cheer up when they are feeling sad. Alfie paints, Stella talks to someone, Dotty listens to music and Digger eats fresh, healthy food.
There are worksheets at the back of the book for further ideas and ways of extending the skills presented in this book. As well, there are telephone numbers for direct access to helplines.
Written in verse and with stunning full-colour illustrations, this book is designed so that it can be shared in the classroom and at home.
All monies raised from the sale of this book go to sending a free copy to each school and library in the country.
“Kudos to Susan Day for creating such a beautiful book.”
“I think this is fantastic! I absolutely love it. It would be the perfect book for our clients to read with their children to improve their coping skills and resilience. This is the best kid’s book I’ve ever seen. I’m so impressed.”
May 6, 2015
No Blues for Youse
Astro is Down in the Dumps, is so much more than a cute book with delightful rhymes. It is a great story that provides helpful strategies for all young children. A perfect tool, this book should be read by parents and teachers starting with the very young. It offers insights and guidance that a child may use to deal with the emotions of feeling sad, depressed, dealing with a trauma in their life, or suffering from anxiety, and they won’t even realize they are being educated.
Through a fun story, author Susan Day, gently informs children they are not alone and the feelings they may be feeling do not define them and should not set them apart from others. A warm embrace of active options so perfect for the young; this story informs not only children suffering from the blues but others who may know someone feeling down in the dumps.
Adorable illustrations, clever rhymes, and the worksheets at the end of the book, all add up to 5 stars!
I will be recommending this book to parents I know.
Astro is Down in the Dumps, is so much more than a cute book with delightful rhymes. It is a great story that provides helpful strategies for all young children. A perfect tool, this book should be read by parents and teachers starting with the very young. It offers insights and guidance that a child may use to deal with the emotions of feeling sad, depressed, dealing with a trauma in their life, or suffering from anxiety, and they won’t even realize they are being educated.
Through a fun story, author Susan Day, gently informs children they are not alone and the feelings they may be feeling do not define them and should not set them apart from others. A warm embrace of active options so perfect for the young; this story informs not only children suffering from the blues but others who may know someone feeling down in the dumps.
Adorable illustrations, clever rhymes, and the worksheets at the end of the book, all add up to 5 stars!
I will be recommending this book to parents I know.
May 11, 2015
What a delightful book this is—and an important one. It is a poem told in seven chapters about Astro (doggie superhero from other books) waking up sad.
His friends: Digger, Alfie, Stella, Indy, Rocky and Dotty all come by to offer advice on how to beat the blues, including painting, talking to somebody about it, writing in a journal and dancing. This advice is contained in the first six chapters. The seventh chapter includes worksheets and helpful links.
Funds raised from the sale of the book go towards sending free copies to schools and libraries.
This is a great resource to offer young children who are feeling sad and who have not developed coping mechanisms. Highly recommended for parents, teachers and counsellors.
His friends: Digger, Alfie, Stella, Indy, Rocky and Dotty all come by to offer advice on how to beat the blues, including painting, talking to somebody about it, writing in a journal and dancing. This advice is contained in the first six chapters. The seventh chapter includes worksheets and helpful links.
Funds raised from the sale of the book go towards sending free copies to schools and libraries.
This is a great resource to offer young children who are feeling sad and who have not developed coping mechanisms. Highly recommended for parents, teachers and counsellors.
May 11, 2015
I have just read Astro down in the dumps to my five year old daughters. They loved it, as did I. Astro's story is told in fun, easy-to-read rhythms and has wonderful vibrant illustrations. The issue of depression in children and ways in which we can help them overcome it (as Astro's friends do in the book) is such an important message for children and adults alike. This book is a fantastic resource to highlight and share the issue. I highly recommend it.
September 3, 2015
Astro is Down in the Dumps is a great way to teach kids that everyone feels low sometimes and there are ways to deal with it. Susan Day has a wonderful knack with the skill of verse and it shines through in this fun, happy story about being sad. It includes information for further study into the subject making this a perfect addition to any classroom or home!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews