Popcorn

On school photo day, when it really matters that he looks his best, Andrew manages to upset a bully, get involved in a disastrous science experiment, and have a nasty encounter with a fast-moving basketball. Until, with glasses smashed, ruined clothes, and a face full of blood, he looks anything but his best. 

By the time it’s his turn with the photographer, he’s exhausted. And the nugget of worry that was in his stomach at the start of the day has grown into a massive, flaming boulder of anxiety that could explode at any moment.  

As well as expressing the compulsions and intrusive thoughts that are part of living with OCD in a way that makes it easier to understand and empathise with, Andrew’s story also tackles other complexities of family life such as dementia and multi-generational living. 

Using humour to make serious issues accessible and palatable, the book is peppered with spot art and comic panels, which depict the reality of extreme anxiety with honesty and wit.

This is a funny, warm-hearted yet informative snapshot of life with a cognitive difference and how letting go of control can be a first step to accepting help.