Supporting children with anxiety, London-based author Eleanor Segall has drawn from her own childhood experiences to write Arabella and the Worry Cloud, a heartfelt picture book supporting children aged 5–8 who struggle with anxiety. Eleanor, who has lived with bipolar disorder since her diagnosis at age 16, aims to help young readers understand and manage their worries through relatable storytelling.
Children’s Mental Health Week is 3rd to 9th February 2025.
Following the success of her debut memoir, Bring Me to Light: Embracing My Bipolar and Social Anxiety, published by Trigger Publishing in 2019, Eleanor continues her mission to reduce the stigma around mental health. Her memoir detailed her journey with Bipolar 1 disorder and her recovery after hospitalisations, inspiring many with its message of hope.
Meet Arabella and her Worry Cloud
Arabella and the Worry Cloud introduces readers to Arabella, a seven-year-old girl who faces daily worries, from small tasks like putting on her socks to bigger fears about her cat or schoolwork. Her constant companion, the Worry Cloud, symbolises her anxious thoughts, teaching children that worries, like clouds, come and go.
Eleanor shares coping tools within the story, inspired by techniques that helped her manage her own anxiety. Through Arabella’s journey, children learn that even when caught in life’s “rainstorms,” the clouds will eventually clear.
Positive messages praised by parents and children
The book has received glowing feedback from parents, educators, and young readers alike:
- “I really enjoyed the book and really liked Arabella. I learnt to not worry about things and that we should only think happy things.” – Matilda, aged 8
- “A stunningly beautiful book with such important mental health and wellbeing messages. Suitable for primary school children, and adults should read it too!” – Mrs Davis, parent
- “Beautifully written and illustrated. This book will help kids overcome anxiety and understand they’re not alone.” – Britt Pfluger
Where to buy
Arabella and the Worry Cloud is available in paperback for £7.99 and as an e-book for £4.99 on Amazon.
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