Reviews for “A Kids Book About Overdose”

Varon’s latest book “A Kids Book About Overdose” explains overdoses well while holding space very nicely for younger audiences and their feelings.
-Danielle McPeak, MPH, Prevention and Recovery Specialist, Cambridge Public Health Department

One can imagine the circumstances that might lead a child to ask questions about drug overdoses—what they are, what to do in case one happens, even what to expect from yourself. This book answers those critical questions in a calm, supportive and informative way. There is no judgement to obstruct or confuse the child's search for answers. Nor is there any effort to bring in larger overdose issues that would only complicate a child's understanding of the matter at hand. The author's voice is always calm, caring, and thoughtful. The voice of an adult who knows what a child dealing with an overdose must be going through. More importantly, an adult you would want to guide and assist your own child, should he or she need such guidance. I was struck with the simplicity of the author's approach, and the clean kid-friendly design of the book. At one point in the narrative, the author confirms what the child-reader must already know, that "An overdose is a scary thing." The author then quickly explains the core reason for this book's existence, that "talking about things can make them easier to manage." In its simplicity, clarity and strength of focus, this is a wonderful book!
-Paul Stone

Lee Varon’s new book is a treasure! Her explanations about addiction for both children and adults address the desperate need for understanding about this national crisis with knowledge and compassion.
-Kristen

This book is sadly a very critical and important resource given the current opioid crisis. Equipping children with age appropriate knowledge can be scary but literally life saving! This book is meant to be read with a trusted adult and a kid, and it couldn't be more clear and simple. I highly recommend it, especially if anyone in the home uses substances, but it is truly for anyone!
-Sophia Hasenfus

Once again Varon, author of "My Brother is Not a Monster" has written a work designed for children, their families, and professionals in the field of addiction. It is clear, concise and powerful and includes suggestions for managing these difficulties. We can all benefit and learn from her work.
-Charlene O’Connor

Reviews for “My Brother Is Not a Monster”

"Varon’s passion for raising awareness around substance abuse is clear and ultimately guides the story. Crafted to educate and soothe younger readers, Varon’s narrative is straightforward."

"Varon’s great care and thoroughness distinguish the end resources. She includes multiple journaling and reflection prompts for kids about emergency responses, coping methods, and self-esteem, as well as lists of organizations to help all family members involved in the recovery process. This story is best suited for younger children or those readers new to the concept of substance abuse and recovery."

"...the empathetic My Brother Is Not a Monster is an opportunity to help a highly targeted audience of readers."
-BookLife Review

“Lee S. Varon, a clinical social worker, has created a perfect book for very young people and their parents about Substance Use Disorder (SUD) with absolutely no “triggers,” which means it has no areas that would make someone want to use drugs. It would be wonderful to see these books in grade school classrooms and used by parents for young children that they suspect are at risk for using drugs. The book also has many places in the end, where one can be referred if the youngster is at risk. “My Brother Is A Monster” is the book about Substance Use Disorder that we’ve all been waiting for. It is published by Rachlee Books and the ISBN is 978-8-9851363-1-9. Available at Barnes & Noble online!”
- Marc D. Goldfinger

“I just read the book. I cried. It’s beautiful. It captures the sadness and fear of loving someone who is using and also captures the healthy memories and connection that is missed. It brings these feelings together simply and quickly and it brings hope. All my kids will be home for XMAS, I’ll make sure everyone reads it.”
-Carol S.

Children can understand SUD better than adults might think. Good storytelling can help. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is spot on: showing a family challenged by SUD but coming together to support their Loved One. Instead of magnifying fear, it teaches and sheds light. And its arrival could hardly be more timely.

The reader reviews are emphatic: “This book belongs in all school libraries.” “As my brother died of an overdose, this book has touched me and my kids.” “I am able to nurture myself as an adult after reading this book, as a child who grew up in a home where SUD was present. This book is going to save lives.”

They’re talking about My Brother Is Not a Monster, a new children’s book by Lee S. Varon, illustrated by Alisha Monnin. It tells the story of Joey, a young man with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), as witnessed by Sophia, his younger sister. Sophia loves him deeply but is worried and confused. It’s a situation, as the Allies community knows so well, affecting countless families around the country and the world.

My Brother Is Not a Monster, however, works hard to reduce the confusion. “Understanding the disease of addiction can be extremely difficult, especially for children,” notes former congresswoman and CEO of Mothers Against Prescription Drug Abuse Mary Bono. “Lee Varon’s story does a wonderful job of demystifying this difficult disease through the eyes of a child.”

-rredick from Allies in Recovery Website

This book is so imperative for young audiences. I am able to nurture myself as an adult after reading this book, as a child who grew up in a home where SUD was present. This book is going to save lives, and I can't recommend it enough - not only for children, teens, and even adults who've had someone in their life who suffers from SUD, but for those who do not. There is not enough discourse and education around SUD, and this book can truly help towards harm reduction, education, and the overall de-stigmatization of substance use. This book is a warm hug for my wounded, but healing, inner child.

-Jenna M.

This is a very special book that sensitively describes, and beautifully illustrates, how people (especially youth) become addicted and abuse themselves and their family/friends. It is a story about families, friendships, frightening life experiences, and redemption. A key point is not to blame or feel guilty but act to save someone's life.

The author provides useful resources for people dealing with addictions: helpful hints; places to go for more information and assistance; and a glossary of terms.

-Elizabeth K.

I love this book because it uses the real words like needle, heroin and narcan. It doesn’t just say he was holding something sharp, it mentions he had a needle. It doesn’t just say he was on drugs, it says he was on heroin. I read this to all of my kids ages 4,7,9 and 11 and they were all very in to this book. As my brother had died of an overdose this book has touched me and my kids had a few questions after reading the book to them as well. Well written! Thank you

- Michel M.

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