It’s been almost a year since I sat down to talk with author and illustrator Matt Wiley about his book My Cat is Depressed. But I find myself rereading it a lot these days. Its message about depression, and how to best help those with dealing with it, is particularly meaningful during these unsettling times.
Last June, Wiley shared the story of the book’s inspiration.
The real balance was creating something that could be both endearing and an informal way to teach people that depression isn’t always something that can be cured easily, and how to act around people without popping their bubble. What I didn’t expect was for the cat to serve as an audience surrogate. Some people are relating to the cat,and it can help reassure them that they’re valid people even if they don’t always feel like hanging out.
So if you haven’t read it yet, now is the time to do so. And get a copy for a friend.
Top image: Photo of Matt Wiley’s book My Cat is Depressed. Photo by Debra Domal.