Lavender Clouds: Comics about Neurodivergence and Mental Health by Bex Ollerton is not a “how to” or “mindfulness” book, but is a collection of comics that forms a graphic novel that allows us to journey with the author as we see their mental health journey. There are “no true wayisms” but ways that worked for them, things that are for you the person dealing with mental health and those who need a little boost to help a loved one dealing.
Ollerton is also neurodivergent (autistic and has ADHD), making their mental health journey different from others. This combination might seem hopeless, but we are given an actual very hopeful book. I think this gives them a more relatable perspective on the situation. You might see yourself in some of the thoughts, feelings and actions of Ollerton, but their experience is also personal and their own. Such as how they talk about the practices we are told are “foolproof” to help us organize ourselves and/or deal with our own issues, are not always the best. Overall, it is not a “self-help” book, but you will find ways to help yourself and others.
Cute (nose-less) illustrations of the author vary with detail and color to set a tone. They are a bit lighthearted which is a plus and minus for me. Sometimes this takes away from the seriousness of the subject, but also allows a safe environment to explore. Their afterwards is worth a read as well, not to mention now I am curious about their 2022 graphic novel, Sensory: Life on the Spectrum: An Autistic Comics Anthology. And I plan on finding their social media (@Schnumn)
Read via an online reader copy, this book is due mid/late June 2024
