This is another in the excellent Can I Tell You About...series from Jessica Kingsley Publishers, and in this book we learn about Josh and his family. His dad has bipolar disorder, and Josh gives us full explanations about how this affects him and both of his parents. There are also good explanations of exactly what bipolar is, the two types, and that when in a manic phase, his dad does unusual things like buying items he doesn't need, gets overly excited, and has trouble sleeping at night. But the depressive stages are the worst, when he is terribly unhappy, sleeps a great deal, has great anxiety, and doesn't leave the house. Different ways that people react to having bipolar are explained thoroughly if simply, and Josh's dad's experiences are used as an example of what happens to one person. Josh himself and his mum are also affected by his dad's illness, and they support one another. Dad sometimes decides not to take his medication when he is in a manic phase, because he hates taking it, and this can bring on another attack. Josh can find other people's remarks hurtful, but he knows that his two best friends understand the situation and are supportive. He can talk to them and also a teaching assistant at school with a daughter with bipolar. He and his dad make cakes together when all is well, and both of them enjoy this very much. His dad makes excellent cakes, and all his school friends want him to bake for their birthdays! So, this is a story about a coping family, one with problems to work on together, and they know all about the ways they can help dad to get better - such things as eating and sleeping well, talking to friends, taking exercise (particularly outside) and having quiet times. There are professional people who can help too, and these are explained. There is much love in this family, and together they are getting through the tough times and enjoying the good times. A short section on How Friends Can Help and another on How School Can Help are valuable, and there is further information on resources and organisations. The black and white illustrations are good without being at all intrusive. An excellent explanation of what problems - and joys - bipolar can make to those living with it. Available from Amazon, from book shops, and from the publisher: www.jkp.com.