Gifty and Hey Gee. My Life Beyond Depression. Rochester, MN: Mayo Clinic Press Kids, 2023.

Guide to categories: MS Review – review of books for older elementary-aged and middle school-aged children

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Summary of My Life Beyond Depression

A beautifully illustrated, adventure-filled graphic novel that provides a kid’s-eye view of living with depression.
Author and illustrator Hey Gee tells the story of a real-life Mayo Clinic patient. Through a first-person narrative, this book gives a glimpse into the daily routine, challenges and coping techniques of a child managing depression. Color and visual techniques bring the emotional ups and downs to life for a powerful impact. A beautifully illustrated graphic nonfiction approach provides a kid’s-eye view of living with, and beyond, this common mental health condition.

Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education at Mayo Clinic.

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My MS Review of My Life Beyond Depression

Unfortunately, many people suffer from depression. Gifty is a teen who experiences bouts of depression at times due to her disabilities. Depression can be devastating. Thanks to her therapist Gifty has developed some coping mechanisms which she shares in the book. Hey Gee presents the story in a graphic novel format. The book is a nonfiction story with non fiction information shared in a story. 

Children, teens, and even adults who experience depression will appreciate this book written by someone who understands their situation. Caregivers and friends may gain some understanding of the condition. The book ends with a section of useful resources and a note from the medical editor. 

My Life Beyond Depression would be a beneficial book in a K-12 Christian school library. It could serve as an encouragement for those who have experienced it first hand. 

I received a complimentary copy of My Life Beyond Depression. This is my honest review. 

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