I'd rather this didn't use a royal setting or a princess as main character but otherwise the story of a princess falling into depression is handled perceptively and compassionately, with hope as an outcome. (An opening note from the author states "he has learned to live with his fog rather than suffer from it.") Backmatter is a note of guidance for parents from two clinical psychologists. ( )

The Princess and the Fog: A Story for Children with Depression by Lloyd Jones is a helpful picture book for readers of all ages. It begins: "Once upon a time, there was a Princess." This Princess was happy, loved, and content... until the fog came. Soon she did not want to do her favorite things, or anything really. A persistent friend offered to listen, and soon the princess was able to share with others about the presence of the fog and how it made her feel. She went to the `doctor`who whipped something up (medication) and they banished the fog, at least for now, and have a plan to deal with it when it makes periodic returns. This is a creative and entertaining book that tackles a serious topic/issue that many people do not want to deal with and is often not recognized, but depression is real and not only do adults deal with it but so do children and teenagers. This book describes and illustrates simply and beautifully the onset of depression, the experience of it at its worst, and the various self-help methods available to deal with it. More importantly, 'A Guide for Parents and Carers' at the back of the book and written by medically qualified professionals does differentiate between low mood and depression, assisting in defining the two. A great book for families dealing with the issue of depression or classrooms where a student has depression.

Thank you Netgalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book. ( )

Coming soon... ( )