National Read A Book Day: Our top books about mental health

Today is National Read A Book Day – a day that encourages all of us to take a break and get reading, either curled up on the sofa or with family and friends! Whether you’re rediscovering old favourites or delving into new bestsellers, National Read a Book Day is the perfect excuse to sit back, relax, and get lost in an amazing story. 

Here at Banjo HQ, we wanted to share with you some of our favourite books. This year has been a strange one and has affected the mental health of many of our family members as well as ourselves. We thought we would list our top five books for grown ups and kids that focus on mental health that you can read this National Read A Book Day:

Books for the kids:

Have you filled a bucket today? by Carol McCloud

This lovely positive book helps your little one deal with their emotions by creating engaging and fun lessons with the help of their brilliant collection of display posters, worksheets, activities and more!

The Colour Monster by Anna Llenas

This picture book uses colours to explain what mood the monster is in. A great way for a child to be able to explain how they’re feeling with colours. A firm favourite at Banjo HQ!

The Worrysaurus by Rachel Bright 

A fun and reassuring tale about dealing with worries. Can Worrysaurus find a way to chase his fears away and have fun? The perfect book to help your little one let go of any fears they may have and feel happy!

Big Steps: I’m Not Sleepy illustrated by Marion Cocklico

There are a few books in The Big Steps series. They’re designed to help little ones (and their parents) cope with everyday experiences. Such a lovely way of talking things through with your child.

Ruby’s worry by Tom Percival

This is a reassuring and sensitive book and the perfect springboard for talking to children about sharing their hidden worries no matter how big or small they may be! 

Books for the grown ups:

The Illustrated Mum by Jacqueline Wilson

Not quite an adult novel but this book tackles adult themes about a child worrying about an adult. A real eye opener and definitely one to read and pass on to your older children!

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Just beautiful. This novel explores so many elements of dealing with regrets and wondering if things could have been different. It gives a fantastic new perspective after reading and is definitely one you should read this year.

The Boy who steals houses by C.G Drews

This is a book about two young boys, cast away by society. Heartbreaking and heartwarming both at the same time. A must read but, make sure you have your tissues nearby!

Good enough by Jen Petro-Roy

This is a real honest book about survival. The book is built around the strength you need to carry on, and the themes running throughout will really help you if you feel like you’re suffering at the moment.

Turtles All the Way Down by John Green

Following the trials and tribulations of teenage life, this book will help you to understand a little of what is going through your older children’s heads. Brutally honest, this book covers the issues of love, friendship and family. If you get a chance, also check out John Green’s other novel The Fault In Our Stars. Another brilliant read!

We hope that you manage to grab some time today to have a quick read but we think EVERYDAY should be Read A Book Day. Check out our other blogs too with lots more ideas and activities for you to do with your family. 

Happy reading! Banjo HQ x