MP: What was it like to see your illustrator MacKenzie Haley’s interpretation of your words? Working with the illustrator was incredibly important in that it was key in creating a book that could introduce children to the topic in the best possible manner. YE: The writing process allowed me to discover writing as a therapeutic tool which allowed for an internal journey. Thus, using this book as a tool to discuss depression is all the more currently relevant. YE: Due to the worldwide Coronavirus pandemic, there is a sharp increase in depression both in adults and children, as there is an increase in stressors and complex situations. How do you think Pockets Full of Rocks could be especially helpful right now? MP: The whole world is under increased stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and families are feeling the impact. The goal is to initiate a dialogue with children and not fear starting a conversation on the topic. YE: My personal story with this topic began when my daughter began asking me questions about what I was going through, and I didn’t have any way to explain it to her in an age-appropriate fashion. MP: Why did you decide to tell the story through a conversation between Ella and her father? In addition, it is important not to shy away from speaking about depression and rather, understand its impact in families in which a parent is suffering from it. I think it is important to explain depression to children in a way that they will understand. ![]() YE: Depression in the eyes of children is not something tangible or concrete that can be seen. MP: Why do children need books about parental mental illness? Yair Engelberg: Regarding my own personal experience with my daughter in the shadow of depression: As having experienced this, I wanted to share my knowledge and experience with other families in a similar situation and hopefully help them. Magination Press: What inspired you to write Pockets Full of Rocks? Author Yair Engelberg shared his experience creating Pockets Full of Rocks with us in this interview. ![]() As a young girl gently questions her depressed father, the story offers direct answers that help her understand what her dad is going through. In the new book, Pockets Full of Rocks, the author helps readers understand the experience of a parent with depression. ![]() Mental illness impacts every member of the family, and if the children in your life have questions, you will need answers.
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