Balloons for Papa: A Story of Hope and Empathy – A Poignant Picture Book About a Father's Depression for Children (Ages 4-8)

Balloons for Papa: A Story of Hope and Empathy – A Poignant Picture Book About a Father's Depression for Children (Ages 4-8)

A perfect book to help discuss mental health, depression, empathy, loss, and hope with young children. Arthur's gloomy father rushes him through the park every morning, through gray and rainy weather. Arthur just wants a bright balloon from the park's vendor, but Papa always says no. One morning, the balloons magically appear at their doorstep, and Arthur figures out the perfect way to bring the sunshine out—and Papa's smile back—even if only for a few moments. Brimming with affecting and poignant words, beautiful black-and-white illustrations, and bursts of color on every page, Balloons for Papa sends the message that even in the worst situations, there is light and love. PreS-Gr 1—Young children have a greater capacity for emotional understanding than they sometimes get credit for. Ever since Arthur's mama went to the hospital, dreary, gray feelings have settled over him and his papa. Every day on their way to visit Arthur's mama, he and his papa pass a balloon seller in the park. Her brightly colored wares call to Arthur, but despite his persistence, his papa refuses Arthur's request to purchase one. A happy accident lands several balloons on Arthur's doorstep one morning, returning color to his muted world. Families who have ever experienced profound sadness together will immediately recognize the drab, melancholy pages of this book. Low hanging clouds mirror the characters' emotions, appearing in stark contrast to the balloons. Short, simple text is placed in and around each illustration, becoming as much a part of the visual story as the images themselves. The intentional use of colors in carefully calibrated circumstances greatly enhances the emotional component of this story. A wide representation of ages and skin tones inhabit the scenes, while Arthur and his papa both have light complexions. An author's note at the end gives readers some context for the purpose behind the story. VERDICT This important story of connection through sadness is beneficial to children and adults alike.—Mary Lanni, formerly at Denver P.L. This important story of connection through sadness is beneficial to children and adults alike. - School Library Journal (starred review) A skillful reminder that kids can be the bright spots amid their caregivers’ serious worries.  - Kirkus Reviews A moving picture book reminder of the significance of small actions and a celebration of children’s capacity for empathy. - Publishers Weekly Erika Meza migrated from Mexico in 2013, leaving behind her family, friends and her favorite food. She lived in a dungeon with a ghosts-and-ghouls-painting princess, learned how to tell stories, then found and lost a spotted dog in Paris, where she attended school. She finally crossed the France-UK border and settled down in London, where she lives in a small flat and works as an author and illustrator, aided by her cat who tries to leave inky paw prints on her work. She tries to go back home often, at the border of Tijuana and San Diego, where her book was born.