Book Nook: Butterflies in Me - An Anthology Bringing Awareness to Mental Health

 I recently had the chance to review a book that is quite helpful and definitely fills a niche in today's world. Following the individual stories of Kenya, Lulu, Abbas, and Javier, Butterflies In Me: An Anthology Bringing Awareness to Mental Health by childhood sexual abuse survivor and author Denisha Seals details each child’s journey to finding their voice and overcoming their troubles with the support and love of a caring adult. Throughout the book, Seals repeats the mantra: "You are special, strong, and you did nothing wrong."

This book was very kid-friendly. In real, understandable language, it shared stories that some kids can relate with, and touches on several key mental health issues - ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. With each story a very quick strategy is given, but it's not so much about solving the issue as it is about being able to start the dialogue between adults and kids about their feelings and showing them that they're not alone.

Accompanying the book, Learning to Love Your Butterfly: A Workbook Building Self-Esteem and Resilience, is a workbook designed to help children in grades 4 through 8 learn more about themselves through the process of self-reflection and goal-setting, all with the intention of boosting self-esteem. In addition to the workbook, Seals offers Tools for Children to Embrace Their Mental Health, a guide with tools for practitioners who work with children, providing crucial information on diagnostic criteria according to the DSM-V (a manual for assessment and diagnosis of mental disorders). Both books in tandem with Butterflies In Me work to uplift the voices of children, who are rarely empowered to speak up on their own behalf, no matter their background.

DENISHA SEALS is an artist, filmmaker and author who uses the power of her pen to lift the voices of the marginalized and victimized. A survivor of childhood sexual abuse and trauma, she advocates for more awareness and understanding of the emotional toll abuse victims experience, particularly children of color. Her uplifting stories inspire readers to be strong, fearless and full of hope.

For more information, visit www.water2spirit.com.