Jessie and the Monster

This book is aimed at young people who are struggling with anxiety and depression. Author, Mark Stevenson, has based this book on his daughter’s experience with anxiety. Jessie is the protagonist and to begin with she is happy but then feelings of anxiety begin to overwhelm her. The story uses imagery to give some understanding to the issues Jessie faces. Jessie lives in a faraway Kingdom where all is well, and Badlands is where Whisper, the evil monster creeps out of to undermine Jessie’s happiness and confidence.

Deborah Hinde’s black and white illustrations throughout, cleverly help to tell Jessie’s story over 45 pages. At the back of the book is an honest and helpful note from author Mark Stevenson, followed by two pages of 20 talking points for readers, parents, teachers and friends. There is also a web address reference should readers want more resources or to contact the author.

I like this book and would recommend it to parents, care-givers, teachers and friends of young people who they know are doing it tough with anxiety issues. The authors note alone is a helpful read, and the talking points are a useful starting point for discussion.

Title: Jessie and the Monster: A Battle with Anxiety, A Story of Courage and Hope

Author: Mark Stevenson

Illustrator: Deborah Hinde

Publisher: Calico Publishing

ISBN: 978-1-877429-42-2

RRP: $19.95

Format: Paperback

Publication: February 2021

Ages: 8-15 Years

Reviewer: Vickie Humphries, Librarian, Mount Cook School, Wellington

How are you recommending this book? Recommended

Opening sentence: Once long ago in a beautiful faraway Kingdom lived a girl called Jessie.

You can buy this book here