SuitabookThe colour thief
Andrew Peters
- Reading
- Share it when there is time to pause, rather than rushing through the difficult parts. Let the child lead discussion, reassure them that depression is not their fault, and allow uncertainty about the ending.
- Themes
- Depression and family life: The father’s depression changes the colourful life he and the child once shared, and the child experiences his withdrawal. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Self-blame and reassurance: The child fears being responsible for the father’s condition, while receiving reassurance that this is not so. The child’s self-blame is presented as mistaken rather than a valid explanation, although the detail and resolution of this concern are not known.
- Help and hope: As the father seeks help, a glint of colour reappears and hope returns. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Worth knowing
- The subject is emotionally weighty: a parent’s depression affects family life, and the child experiences pain, confusion and fear of responsibility. Read alongside the child’s own feelings and questions.