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My Daddy's Shadow

$25.00
Rating: 5.0 out of 5.0
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
ISBN9780648872337

Every now and then, a children's book comes along that changes everything. This is that book. 

An adorable and heartfelt picture book about our darkest shadow, depression, told gently, endearingly, and with touching warmth.   

Recommended ages: for 0 - 8yrs old

Author: Riley M. Rodgers

Illustrator: Sid Meireles

What is this picture book about? 

Outside, the world is bursting with colour, light and wonder. But inside the house, Daddy has a big secret. A dark shadow is following him around, and it just won't leave him alone. 

From the park to the breakfast table, Daddy's shadow continues to threaten and overwhelm him. Jokes aren't funny to him anymore. He won't come out to play. His sunshine has been stolen, and there's no telling when it will come back - that is until a particularly driven daughter shines her brightest lights into the dark.

Effortless and enchanting poetry, combined with otherworldly watercolour illustrations, this powerful and uplifting book is for anyone who has ever been overcome by sadness or witnessed the dark shadow of depression take hold.

Above all, though, it's for those who know that love and support can make all the difference.  


An excerpt from the story

My world is bursting with so much colour, I look outside and see so much wonder. 

But when I look inside, something isn't right, my daddy's world lacks colour, it isn't quite so bright. 

There's this big, dark shadow that follows his around. It doesn't talk or laugh, It doesn't make a sound. 

There was a time when there was no shadow in our home, but now I wonder if it will ever leave poor Dad alone. 

Why do we need a children's book about depression? 

One in four adults will experience mental illness at some point in their lives. Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, but also one of the most misunderstood - and often, invisible.

For children, depression can be confusing, sad and a little frightening. Children often (mistakenly) believe that they are the cause of their parent, grandparent or carer's sadness. This beautiful book shines a light on the illness that affects so many of us, and helps little ones understand it in a way that is meaningful and accessible to them. 

 

Customer Reviews

Based on 4 reviews
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W
Wendy Brown
A wonderfully moving story

Such a wonderful book and written in an incredibly sensitive way to tell the story of a real life issue that effects so many people and families.

C
Carmel French

Beautifully written and illustrated, this book is a great spring board for an honest and open discussion.

N
Nannie Bon Rugendyke
My Daddys Shadow

Beautiful book. Beautiful story. Beautiful illustrations. I'm not sure any of our grandkids' Daddies have a shadow, but they all got a copy of this book just incase.

A
Audrey French
Every child needs this

For too long, we haven't had these conversations. A perfect concept, a great story, amazing illustrations, thank you Ethicool.

Frequently asked questions


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Commonly newborns through to seven year-olds, but we like to think we're equally loved by very big kids, too!

That depends how good it is! Seriously, though, we're signing new authors all the time and you can learn more HERE.

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When we have new release titles on the way (i.e. in the middle of being printed or shipped to our warehouses), we put them up for pre-order. It usually means they're a few weeks or months away from being delivered to customers.

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