Irene and I met at a bookstore in rural, NH. Neither one of us knew the other would be there on that early spring day, but later it seemed fated. Irene and I soon discovered we share a driving passion to help children navigate through the challenges of life. In particular, Irene is focused on childhood depression, a topic near and dear to her heart.

Life has brought to Irene her share of challenges, including growing up with dyslexia and raising a child who suffered from depression from an early age. Her life experiences inspired Irene to write and illustrate her book, Celia and the Little Boy.

Celia and the Little Boy tells the tale of a child trapped in the darkness and a little girl who helps him to find the light. Although it is written in a manner approachable to young children, Irene’s story has also touched the hearts of teenagers and adults. Mine included.

Through her tale, Irene evokes her personal story,  and the story of anyone who has endured the feelings of entrapment inside inner darkness. There are only three characters in the book, Celia, a little boy hiding under a porch, and an inchworm who joins Celia to inspire the boy to emerge from his hiding place. But, there is one more player in the tale, Celia’s grandfather, whose words of wisdom, and a life lived through wonderment, have instilled within Celia the knowing that the world is in many ways what you make of it. If you look for it, there is always good to be found. And, when viewed with the eyes of wonder, life can be magical. Like the seemingly simple journey of a caterpillar, or the magnificence of the stars in the sky.

As Celia shares the stories of time spent with her beloved grandfather, the little boy slowly makes his way out of the darkness and into the light. Irene’s book is beautifully written using metaphor and analogy in a way that is relatable, inspiring, and poignant.

Celia and the Little Boy travels with Irene to spark discussions about childhood depression. The book has received numerous endorsements and high praise. Justice John T. Broderick Jr. said this of her story, “Celia and the Little Boy should be required reading in every grade school in America. The simple yet powerful story it tells opens the door to feelings and empathy that are increasingly cast aside in our virtual world. Data and information are invaluable but emotional wellbeing is essential to a fulfilling life. Irene’s wonderful book will aid that journey by both inspiring and touching children.”

I agree. One day I hope it is required reading.

If you’d like learn more about her book, or follow Irene’s journey, you can find her at irenebuchine.com

Are you an author with a vision for a better world? Do you have a published book of poetry, fiction, or nonfiction that uplifts and empowers readers to create a more positive inner and outer environment? If so, I’d love to hear more about it. On a “Better World of Books,” I interview authors and review books of all genres that offer a vision for a better world. If you think your work is a part of this vision, please contact Alethea.