Matt just doesn’t get it. Why does he feel so awful? Everything feels so hard, even football – his favourite thing in the world. But now, just the thought of playing or even just going to training, fills him with waves of dread.

His mum reckons he’s adjusting to high school, the extra work and expectations, and Matt wonders for a while if she’s right. Dad said it’s growing pains and that he had aches and pains for months at the same age of nearly 12. But deep down he knows it’s more than that.

One day Matt and his dad decide to go on a a bush walk like they used to. They both understand it will be quiet and peaceful, and for once, going out and doing something doesn’t give Matt a panic attack. Not far down the track, they discover a tiny dog, tied up, abandoned and in a terrible condition. Matt knows he has to save it.

Matt names him Cliff after his Grandad, and although the dog is shaking and timid, the two bond quickly. Learning about looking after a dog alerts Matt to dog depression, which includes lethargy, panic attacks, and wanting to hide. Just like he is feeling himself. But life was good six months ago. His mum and Dad are supportive and there are no problems at home. How could he have depression?

This is a heart wrenching novel as I realised children too can get depression. Main character Matt has a pushy mum though, keen for him to do well and push through any tough stuff he may be feeling. After all, her life was tough from very young.

We are all wired differently and seeing this mum pushing her son (for all the right reasons in her head) then realise how much her pressure was hurting him was heart breaking all over again.

Tiny Cliff the dog had his own battle for life, confidence and love, and this story brings boy and dog together beautifully. This novel is a quick read, and is perfect for tweens who may feel alone in their struggles with dark feelings and possibly depression themselves.

It’s also a red light for friends, family and teachers to recognise these symptoms in someone they may know or love, as people in Matt’s life reached out constantly in support until he spoke The Bravest Word – HELP.

Author – Kate Foster

Age – 10+

(2022, Walker Books, Depression, Sadness, Lethargy, Panic Attacks, Compassion, Love, Family, Understanding, Dog Adoption, Mistreated Animals, Animal Shelter, Friendship, Neighbour, Asking for Help, Family Pressures, Expectations)