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When I See Blue

An inspiring story of OCD, friendship and bravery
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( 470 ratings, 92 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
When I See Blue by Lily Bailey is a captivating story about a young boy named Ben who navigates life while managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Set against the backdrop of his new school, Ben's journey is one of self-discovery, friendship, and understanding as he finds ways to cope with his challenges in a supportive environment. Suitable for readers in the children's category, this book offers an insightful look into the struggles and triumphs associated with mental health, wrapped in an engaging narrative.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$1999
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're interested in stories that tackle important topics such as mental health and navigating school life with authenticity and hope. This children's book provides insight into the mind of a young protagonist while delivering an uplifting message about understanding, courage, and friendship.

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When I See Blue

12-year-old Ben has a bully in his brain who tells him what to do. It makes dealing with a new school, new town and parents who are falling apart seem impossible. This heartfelt story about a boy with OCD celebrates how friendship can make you brave and find the strength to overcome anything ...

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

New town, new school, but the bully is in Ben's head ...

There are 4 things you should know about Ben:

1. He's 12 years old

2. He's the new kid at school

3. His special number is 4

4. He has a bully in his brain

Sometimes Ben's brain makes him count to 4 to prevent bad things happening. Sometimes it makes him tap or blink in 4s. Mostly it makes the smallest things feel impossible. And with a new school, a moody big brother, an absent dad and a mum battling her own demons, Ben feels more out of control than ever. But then he meets April, and with his new friend, Ben might finally figure out how to stand up to the bully in his brain, once and for all.

An authentic and affecting #ownvoices story about living life with OCD, from the inspiring author and mental health activist, Lily Bailey. Perfect for readers of A Kind of Spark and The Goldfish Boy.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

When I See Blue by Lily Bailey has been praised for its sensitive and insightful portrayal of a young protagonist navigating life with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Reviewers appreciate its heartfelt narrative, which combines humour and poignancy, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. The book has been commended for raising awareness about mental health issues in an age-appropriate manner.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781510109803

Publisher: Hachette Children's Group

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 09 June 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Orion Children's Books

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 300g

Pages: 352

About the Author

Lily Bailey is a writer. She first became a journalist in London in 2012, editing a news site and writing features and fashion articles for local publications including the Richmond Magazine and the Kingston Magazine.

As a child and teenager, Lily suffered from severe Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She kept her illness private, until the widespread misunderstanding of the disorder spurred her into action. In 2014 she began campaigning for better awareness and understanding of OCD. Her first book, Because We Are Bad (May 2016), recounts her experience of OCD, and was published in the UK, US, Australia and Germany. In 2019, she was awarded the Illumination Award, which is presented by the IOCDF to media personalities and influencers who have accurately and respectfully represented OCD and related disorders. She continues to write and speak publicly about OCD and mental illness, and blogs for Psychology Today.

Lily grew up in London, she now lives in Kent with her dog Rocky and her partner. She enjoys watching Doctor Who, swimming and playing chess (not very well). Lily usually prefers dogs to people and can ride a tandem bicycle. She is a former model, which she makes up for by being deeply uncool.

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