Lost inside my head

Gr 3--6--This complex story in picture book form is better suited for upper elementary students. Based on the author's personal experience of not yet being diagnosed with ADHD but trying to fit in with what the world expects of him, the main character, Vincent, compares his head to a huge house with different rooms that change their location and function. While he feels like his world is always chaotic, with negative voices in his head pulling him down, in the end, Vincent discovers how to find his own way by looking for the light in his mind. Vigg's bright, cartoonlike drawings bring the story to life and help readers understand what life is like for Vincent at school and in the world, as do clear descriptions such as, "It's like the entire jumble of the universe is having a party in my head." It is a celebration of hope, resilience, and the power of self-acceptance that will resonate with readers of all ages. VERDICT A work that depicts vividly what the mind of a person with ADHD experiences. A highly recommended purchase for all collections.--Heidi Dechief

In this tale translated from French, a young boy with ADHD describes his thought processes. Life is full of distractions, but for someone with attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), all those distractions can seem chaotic and lead to paralysis as well as low self-esteem. In Vincent's case it keeps him from concentrating or completing simple tasks. But it also allows his imagination to blossom. After being unable to complete a recitation task in school, Vincent, a light-skinned boy, feels discouraged and seeks a solution to his concentration problems. By dividing his brain into various rooms, he's able to find a quiet place to help him focus. The text meanders a bit, but its weaknesses are countered by strong artwork that allows readers a glimpse into the various "rooms" in Vincent's brain. There's even a chute meant to send away "all the not-so-nice things people say," with an illustration filled with those negative comments. One of the most telling and relatable double-page spreads features a plethora of crows attacking him and urging him to be "like everyone else." Eventually, Vincent accepts that he isn't like others but has his own particular strengths and ways of navigating life, a reassuring message for anyone whose brain functions differently. A wild ride inside an imaginative but easily distracted brain. (Picture book. 6-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.