Here I Am, I Am Me: An Illustrated Guide to Mental Health

Gr 8 Up–Faced with social media, world events, and extracurricular activities, kids today are bombarded with stimuli and are living with anxiety. Bean’s comprehensive guide to mental health is a welcome addition to books geared toward adolescents. The author uses detailed drawings and explanations about how the brain works to show teenagers what they can do to take care of their minds. Chapters include insights into neurological facts, trauma, panic attacks, substance use, and depression. The author gives detailed accounts of what happens inside teen brains while experiencing certain emotions. Each chapter is filled with fascinating information and includes a relatable story to go along with the lessons. This is a valuable resource for young people, whether they encounter minor episodes of fear or anger, or have more acute mental disorders. The colorful drawings are whimsical but do not minimize the seriousness of the topic. Each page is engaging, with accessible text in every frame for even the most distracted teenager.