Like many classics for young readers--Winnie the Pooh books, example--Paymaneh Ritchie's My Name is Oliver, (Tellwell Publishing 2016 $6.99) was written by a parent to entertain their own child. Told from the perspective of a lovable but depressive six-year-old Beagel-Springer Spaniel who was adopted from the SPCA, this children's book delves into mental health issues that include separation anxiety, allergies, anxiety and depression. Ritchie's aim is to have a light-hearted story that will enable the reader to discuss tolerance, acceptance and unconditional love with children. A portion of the proceeds will go to the BC SPCA and the Beagle Freedom Project.

BOOKS:

My Name is Oliver (Victoria: Tellwell Publishing, 2016).

E-book ISBN:978-1-77302-425-7
Paperback ISBN: 978-1-77302-251-2
Hardcover ISBN: 978-1-77302-250-5

[BCBW 2016]