The first day of school can be both exciting and challenging for any young child, let alone a child with a developmental disorder. In My Mind by Carmen Y. Hernández follows the unique experience of Camilo, a boy with ADHD. Learn more about this picture book and enter to win a copy!
My Review:
Featuring comical characters and expressive illustrations, In My Mind explores the impact of neurodivergence on school performance through an engaging, uplifting story.
Eager to make new friends on his first day of school, Camilo finds himself tongue-tied and ill at ease when he enters the classroom with everyone's eyes on him. In class, he can't help but get easily distracted. Feeling bored, his mind starts to wander while he gets cozy on the carpet. Luckily, there are things that he really enjoys at school, such as being a student teacher, playing soccer during recess, and learning about the five senses. Will he get home safe and sound after a long day with mixed feelings?
From a first person point of view, the story shares Camilo's inner thoughts and feelings, which help the reader make sense of why he behaves differently in class. The narrative reveals with clarity and sensitivity the boy's struggle to stay focused, his anxiety about fitting in, and his longing for friendship and recognition.
For parents and educators, it suggests how to identify signs of ADHD in order to provide appropriate accommodations or adjustments for children with ADHD. For young readers, it promotes empathy towards and acceptance of those who appear to have trouble acting "normal." And for those who may resonate with Camilo, the story reassures them that they are not alone. It urges them to communicate with their teacher or caregiver about their struggle. It also encourages them to experiment with various activities to find what they are passionate about, what helps channel their energy and improve focus, and what boosts their confidence.
Full of color and vitality, the book's graphics well complement the narrative with an appealing visual representation of characters with diverse ethnic backgrounds, highly relatable scenarios in the school setting as well as Camilo's actions and emotions. Even the toys and decorations in the classroom have expressive faces.
Delightful and meaningful, In My Mind is an educational book that advocates for early detection of developmental disorders like ADHD, soliciting support and understanding from the general public, especially those who care deeply about the well-being of neurodivergent kids.
About the Book:
Ages: 3-8 | 38 Pages
Publisher: Mascot Kids! (2026) | ISBN: 979-8891382909
Starting school is both terrifying and exciting for Camilo. He wonders what his new teacher and classmates will think of him. But, as the day unfolds, Camilo has a hard time fitting in. The classroom feels overwhelming, and he battles nerves that make it hard to focus or speak up. He gets distracted, daydreaming about far-away places, and sometimes he forgets that he is in school altogether. But as the day goes on, Camilo discovers unexpected joys.
This heartwarming story captures the challenges of a child with ADHD who has to navigate a busy first day at school.
Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop
About the Author:
Carmen Y. Hernández was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and moved to the United States at the age of five. Carmen is the first in her family of five to earn a master’s degree in general education. With fifteen years of experience as an educator, she has witnessed a growing number of students with undiagnosed cases of dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and intermittent explosive disorder (IED).
Through this book, Carmen hopes to raise awareness among a new generation of parents about the increasing prevalence of these disorders and the importance of understanding and supporting children with these challenges.
Follow Carmen on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Follow Mascot Books on Instagram.
Three lucky winners will each receive a hardcover copy of In My Mind!
Giveaway ends 3/1. Open to US only. Please complete your entries below. Good luck!
In My Mind: Book GiveawayDisclosure: This post is sponsored by Carmen Hernández. All views and opinions expressed are my own. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.
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