Malik's number thoughts A story about OCD

For the past year, Malik has been troubled by "Number Thoughts," which compel him to count certain actions (climbing the stairs, blinking his eyes, etc.) in sets of four and urge him to complete each action on the number four. If he doesn't do so, he feels anxious or fearful, and sometimes he must repeat the entire sequence. Malik worries about handling his anxieties when he attends a classmate's upcoming birthday party at a mini-golf course. His father advises him to talk with his "special doctor" about his concerns. Following her advice, he practices mini golf at home. Later, he successfully uses breathing techniques and mindfulness to calm his Number Thoughts and enjoy the party. Illustrated with colorful digital artwork, the narrative portrays Malik and his struggles in a straightforward, candid manner. The back matter discusses obsessive-compulsive disorder in children and introduces a simple mindfulness exercise. For the many children who are living with OCD, this reassuring picture book could serve as a vehicle for raising questions, finding help, and feeling less alone.

Malik wants to go to his friend's birthday party, but he's afraid his obsessive compulsive disorder--his "Number Thoughts"--will get in the way. Malik, a boy with brown skin and dark, coily hair, has been dealing with his Number Thoughts since last year. He feels compelled to count everything he does, such as tapping his pencil or blinking before going to sleep, and he feels scared and anxious when he doesn't do things in fours. Malik is worried that his Number Thoughts will get in the way at the party, but he draws on techniques given to him by his therapist, such as deep breathing. This book provides a simple, realistic explanation of OCD, presenting it as something that can be coped with rather than as a problem to be easily solved. Children who have OCD will likely see themselves reflected in Malik and will benefit from the calming and centering techniques provided. These are incorporated into the story, modeled by Malik, so that readers can absorb them in context. The book could also be a useful teaching tool to help children who do not have OCD understand it. Unfortunately, the plot is a bit boring, and the tone is didactic. The illustrations are cute, providing support for the text, though they are static at times. Malik's therapist is light-skinned, and his friends are diverse. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A straightforward tale that sheds light on OCD. (additional information on OCD) (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.