I love reading books that include characters with trichotillomania and/or other body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) but I especially love when they're written by someone who has the disorder! Mary Ann and I connected through the BFRB community on social media and I was instantly blown away by her fearlessness and all that she is doing to raise awareness of trichotillomania.
Mary Ann was on Trich Talks! Listen to her episode below!
Mary Ann shares her experience with trichotillomania in her latest release, Hide-n-Seek, the 5th book in the Sundance Spring Series. Right away you are thrown into this magical world where people are open about the things going on in their life, and there really is magic! For Grace, the main character in Hide-n-Seek, that is trichotillomania.
Like Mary Ann (and Grace) I too developed trichotillomania at a young age. I was shocked to read the similarities between us even though I am over 10 years her senior. Trichotillomania feels very unique to us. Like we're the "weird" ones when the reality is we are so much more alike than we are different! The main difference between us is that I hid mine while Mary Ann shared hers with the world.
Grace's character is likable, smart and a great friend. I recently wrote about how it seems like every character with trichotillomania is unlikable so this was a breath of fresh air. Although she goes through hard times, she is able to find positivity in her experience and isn't afraid to lean on those around her for support. It's a good reminder that we can do that too, at any age.
Mary Ann not only writes about her experience in Hide-n-Seek, she did all of the illustrations in the book as well. I don't want to spoil anything but I will say: pay attention to the illustrations. There are details included that mean a lot to the trichotillomania community.
As someone with trichotillomania, Hide-n-Seek is an excellent representation of what it is like living with the disorder. Mary Ann is able to put into words the thoughts and feelings so many of us have had during our journey. Although classified as a Children's Book, it really is for everyone. It can be an important and helpful resource for parents, teachers, therapists, and more.
Thank you Mary Ann, for sharing your experience so beautifully and for everything you are doing for the trichotillomania/BFRB community!
There are things I left out (Duh!) so make sure you listen to Mary Ann's Trich Talks episode!
Kommentare