Title: Blue
Author: Melissa Gole
Publisher: XlibrisAU
ISBN: 978-1-9845-0056-4
Genre: Children’s Self-Help
Pages: 36
Reviewed by: Beth Adams

Read Book Review

Blue is a “pawlice” dog with an issue; he feels sad most of the time. Instead of being the strong alpha leader, apprehending bad guys and performing his job, Blue often finds himself seeking quiet time away from other dogs that tease him. He doesn’t understand why he is feeling this way, so he goes to see his “Dogtor” and begins “bark theory.”

Author Melissa Gole brings to readers’ attention, in an illustrated children’s book format, an example of a dog, feeling different from the others. Although Blue is a police dog and wears his police collar proudly, Gole shows that no matter who you are you can feel different or “empty” inside without understanding why you feel as you do. These are the signs of mental illness and seeking help is necessary. In fact, at the end of the story Gole lists many organizations in countries around the world offering assistance for mental disorders.

So what initially seems as if it is an adventure story of a police dog named Blue, turns out to be a way to “talk to kids” about the symptoms of mental disorders. It is a good resource to open a discussion with youngsters not feeling accepted by their friends, or having some other thoughts distancing themselves from their friends and family. Using the character of a police dog is quite clever, as most every child likes animals – dogs especially. Juxtaposing Blue’s fit, strong and helpful role as a police dog against his uncertainty an internal sadness heightens the contrast of how mental disorders can affect anyone.

As this book is a tool to bring out the issues of mental illness contained within the story, it is not what would be called a bedtime storybook. In my opinion, it is a resource to be read to children who may show the outward appearances of mental illness. It is a way to open them up for professional discussions by qualified doctors and therapists. The contact information at the back of the book shows the many organizations available to seek help, yet those concerned about their children can find their local branch or doctor.

As Blue gets better from feeling “Blue,” so should those who need to read this book, as Melissa Gole has brought to our attention a key method for early detection of mental disorders in her book titled Blue.