Butterflies in Me: An Anthology Bringing Awareness to Mental Health

Powerful, inspiring stories of perseverance and hope for children who feel alienated, out of place or overwhelmed. Each of the four stories in this collection centres around an emotionally vulnerable child. There is 7-year-old Kenya, who struggles with anxiety. Permanently scarred from an accident, the stares and sneers she endures shatters her self-worth. There is Lulu, who falls into depression following the death of her beloved Grandma. Will she ever be happy again? Abbas is a new arrival to America. Adjusting to school proves difficult because he can't concentrate or sit still. He wonders if he's just a "bad" boy. And then there is Javier, the captain of the soccer team. At school, he's a star. At home, he's a punching bag. With guidance, support and love from caring adults, each child finds their voice and turns their troubles into triumphs. Through their journeys, they realize three simple truths: They are special. They are strong. They did nothing wrong. Each story is a celebration of perseverance, grit and resilience. Every character's journey toward healing and acceptance is a reminder to young readers that they, too, are strong and special, even if they sometimes feel scared, vulnerable or alone.

BUTTERFLIES IN ME is from the pen of Denisha Seals. An up-and-coming artist and filmmaker, Denisha is an abuse survivor whose stories honour and celebrate the resiliency of Black and Indigenous children and children of colour.