Gordy the Rabbit has ADHD

What Mental Disorder? #2

by Jessie Shepherd

Often when people are given a mental health disorder diagnosis the weaknesses are clear and overwhelmingly emphasized, while the strengths are ignored or forgotten. The mental health children's book series 'What Mental Disorder?' challenges the stigma against therapy and diagnosis. It enlists the reader to view the character as a whole being and not as a mental issue. Although there are aspects that the character will have to learn to cope with in order to function successfully in their life, there are also amazing traits that make them unique and remarkably accomplished. Gordy the Rabbit has ADHD is a picture book that takes a unique look at the positive and negative characteristics of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Meeting sweet Gordy you get to experience how his day to day routine is, the aspects that he will have to cope with, the amazing personality traits that he has, and how he can learn new skills to be the best rabbit he can be. It is written in such a way that the mental health disorder is explained in a realistic balanced light, while eliciting empathy and understanding from the audience. The book series 'What Mental Disorder?' including Gordy the Rabbit has ADHD is excellent for therapeutic clinicians, those diagnosed with ADHD, or those who would like to gain a better understanding of the disorder.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

50 pages, Hardcover

First published July 17, 2015

Reviews

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book of the “What Mental Health Disorder” series that I have read. (The other two being about Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD.) And once again I was quite impressed with it.

I really like the genuinely unique use of minimalist drawings of the main character (in this case a rabbit named Gordy) with somewhat altered real photographs as background. That made the situations seem quite true to life, but focused your attention more on the character rather than his surroundings.

I am especially impressed with how these books addressed many of the problematic issues related to ADHD, but also the strengths this disorder can give to people. So many books about such conditions focus only on the negative aspects.

While geared toward children, it can also serve as a good basic introduction for adults to this complicated condition. The book provided a lot of factual information in small, easy to understand segments. I especially like the “Best way to interact with someone with ADHD” suggestions at the end.

I definitely recommend this book, especially for anyone looking to find a clear and concise way to begin learning about this disorder.

I hope the author continues this series. I look forward to reading and learning more about other such mental health disorders as well.

I got a free copy of this book from the author as part of a promotion.

[Spencer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute and simple way to increase awareness about mental illnesses.