Michelle Fattig

A Prairie Day with Annie, by Michelle Fattig

This story of Annie masterfully illustrates many of the experiences of a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Inattentive Type, (or ADD). Michelle captures the essence of an ADD child through Annie, and states it so clearly, " How many times has she (Annie) tried to explain to someone that what she was thinking just now, was too broad of a question? How do you explain that "just now" she may have thought about......"

The student can easily identify with Annie and her frequent distractible thoughts, that while wonderfully creative, frequently results in failure. Many ADD students frequently develop negative internal beliefs of I'm no good, I'm stupid, and as Michelle’s Annie says’ "Why can't I just...." Parents often read Annie, and not only see their own child (who may have ADD), but often see themselves, and question whether they may also have ADD. Teachers can easily recognize the frustration that they experience in their classroom and some see how they can approach situations differently.

Michelle's depiction of Annie, her distractions within her mind, school, and family, mirrors many of the life experiences of my clients, their parents, and teachers. As a Clinical Psychologist, I have used this book (even prior to publication) with several of my young clients, as well as their parents, to help in their understanding and identification of ADD. A Prairie Day with Annie, is enjoyable and easy to read, while wonderfully illustrating the creative mind, frustrating experiences, and hopeful possibilities of one who has ADD.

Paul Chleborad, Psy.D., MA, MFCT,
Licensed Psychologist… (mehr)