The Colour Thief

The Colour Thief is a simple, heart-warming tale which helps to open up the conversations around depression and to support young children whose families have been affected.

We follow a young boy who loves spending time with his dad, doing fun things together. When his father becomes sad and distant, he doesn't understand and believes he has done something to make his dad so, despite being told otherwise. Time passes and his father begins to get happier again and they have fun together like before. Narrated from the child's perspective and illustrated with beautiful pictures by the award-winning artist Karin Littlewood, this is the perfect book to read with children aged 7-9 years old who are trying to understand the cause and effects of depression, and reassure them that depression passes and their parents are not lost to them.

'It's crucial kids learn about depression; that it's nothing to feel ashamed about and they are not alone - one fourth of the world knows what it feels like. It's going to be them that break the stigma, not us.' Ruby Wax

'This book brings freshness and vibrancy into a world often portrayed as dark and hidden, and it can help take away the feelings of helplessness and fear that can make families feel so alone.' Marjorie Wallace CBE, Hon FRC Psych, Founder of SANE.

'Vividly depict[s] a young boy's reaction to his father's depression... it's worth sharing this clever and heartfelt book with the kids in your life.' - Elise Moon (6) and Nick Moon (42), Kent - Single Step Magazine

“Vividly depict[s] a young boy's reaction to his father's depression... it's worth sharing this clever and heartfelt book with the kids in your life.”

Elise Moon (6) and Nick Moon (42), Kent - Single Step Magazine
I would wholeheartedly recommend this; it is honest, compassionate and soothing. Playing by the Book
Sensitive and touching... and one that parents, carers and teachers will find invaluable. Parents in Touch
A hugely important book, expertly developed and written and something that would be a huge huge help for children struggling to understand the symptoms and the changes that depression can cause. Read It Daddy!
What is important about Andrew and Polly Peters' work is it offers light at the end of the tunnel. Evening Echo (Cork)
The Colour Thief is a book of great power and real value to families struggling with depression School Librarian
It's crucial kids learn about depression; that it's nothing to feel ashamed about and they are not alone - one fourth of the world knows what it feels like. It's going to be them that break the stigma, not us. -- Ruby Wax

Andrew Fusek Peters is an Anglo-Czech poet, storyteller, didgeridoo player, broadcaster, anthologist and author with an international reputation. He is the UK's tallest poet (6'8''!!) and has worked in thousands of schools, libraries, arts centres and literary festivals, giving lively performances and running workshops with all ages and abilities. 'An experienced and accomplished anthologist', according to the TES, Andrew has published more than 70 books and his poems appear in the Poetry Archive, set up by the Poet Laureate to record the best poets.

Polly Peters is a former English and Drama teacher. She was previously Head of Drama at a sixth form college and currently works as a youth/community theatre leader, director and playwright.

The Colour Thief is a simple, heart-warming tale which helps to open up the conversations around depression and to support young children whose families have been affected. We follow a young boy who loves spending time with his dad, doing fun things together. When his father becomes sad and distant, he doesn't understand and believes he has done something to make his dad so, despite being told otherwise. Time passes and his father begins to get happier again and they have fun together like before. Narrated from the child's perspective and illustrated with beautiful pictures by the award-winning artist Karin Littlewood, this is the perfect book to read with children aged 7-9 years old who are trying to understand the cause and effects of depression, and reassure them that depression passes and their parents are not lost to them.'It's crucial kids learn about depression; that it's nothing to feel ashamed about and they are not alone - one fourth of the world knows what it feels like. It's going to be them that break the stigma, not us.' Ruby Wax'This book brings freshness and vibrancy into a world often portrayed as dark and hidden, and it can help take away the feelings of helplessness and fear that can make families feel so alone.' Marjorie Wallace CBE, Hon FRC Psych, Founder of SANE.'Vividly depict[s] a young boy's reaction to his father's depression... it's worth sharing this clever and heartfelt book with the kids in your life.' - Elise Moon (6) and Nick Moon (42), Kent - Single Step Magazine

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