What Kind of Sick is Uncle John?
by Sharon Simon

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Uncle John is in the hospital because he’s sick. But he doesn’t have a tummy ache, sniffles, or a fever. So… what KIND of sick is Uncle John? In this tender conversation between a mother and son, the child is trying to understand his uncle’s invisible illness. His mother explains how Uncle John’s bipolar disorder affects his behaviour, that it doesn’t make him a scary person, and how their family can continue to love and support him. What Kind of Sick Is Uncle John? models how to talk with young children about mental disorders so that they can grow up being more comfortable supporting loved ones with mental health issues.

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This book is a perfect fit for families handling mental health crises for the first time and can serve as a model for adults having these kinds of conversations with the kids in their lives. Due to the many places children could encounter mental illness, it is also recommended for adults who are in a position to form trusting relationships with children. Such positions could include parents, grandparents or other family caregivers, daycare staff, teachers, guidance counsellors, or family therapists. Children are experts at asking difficult questions (especially at bedtime). Some of the most challenging conversations are those that try to explain complicated matters simply. Luckily, this story has done that admirably, in clearly addressing a child’s curiosity about the unusual actions of a family member and why they are in hospital. It is an excellent read for both adults and children who know someone with a mental or mood disorder. Which is, honestly, pretty much everyone. Erica Ball, MLIS

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Sharon Simon is a sister, daughter, friend, co-worker, and mother to people with various mental health conditions. This book was inspired by her brother’s struggle with bipolar disorder and how she explained his personality extremes to her children. She has worked as a lab manager with the Public Health Agency of Canada for over twenty years, and is a trained tutor for children with dyslexia. A mother of four young adults, Sharon lives in Winnipeg with her husband and too many pets!

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Contributors

Author

Sharon Simon

Illustrator

Paul Schultz

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Other eBook Editions

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