Cookie the Border Collie loves lots of things, like smelling smelly smells, chewing chewy things, going for adventures and making friends. But most of all, Cookie loves Girl. Join this inseparable pair as they play together and learn how to make each other happy, even on the days when Cookie is the only one who can make Girl smile.

Cookie is a heart-warming story about the love between a pet and their person. It is also a sensitive exploration of childhood depression and anxiety, and the importance of empathy. With beautiful words and playful illustrations, it provides a gentle starting point for big conversations.

19-year-old author Isabelle Duff was inspired to write Cookie by her personal experiences with acute depressive disorder and anxiety, and by her wonderful dog, Saffy, who has been an invaluable support to her. The result is a valuable resource for reducing stigmatism around mental illness, and a tribute to the loved ones who are able to get you out of bed when nothing else can.

Anyone who picks up Cookie will find themselves learning something from this mischievous pup and his Girl. It is for children who have experienced depression and anxiety just like Girl. It is for kids who don't understand why someone close to them is so sad. It is for child psychologists who need to talk to young people about mental illness. And, of course, it is for dog-lovers everywhere.

About the Author

Isabelle Duff is a farmer, author, and soon-to-be student at the University of New South Wales, where she will study Advanced Science and Commerce. She is currently on a gap year, working full time on her family farm near Manildra, NSW, where they farm sheep and cattle, and crop. Isabelle is a self-proclaimed "absolute tree hugger," passionate about science and environmental agribusiness. She hopes to one day manage the family business. Cookie is Isabelle's first book, written when she was just 19 years old. She has volunteered at her local primary school for the past year and a half, and is passionate about opening conversations about mental illness with children at a young age, helping to reduce stigmatism and ignorance. Isabelle's favourite things in the world are rock music, picnics, Aussie wildflowers and of course, Saffy - her dog (and best friend) who inspired Cookie. She feels more at home in the bush with her beautiful dog than anywhere else.

Susannah Crispe is a Canberra-based children's book illustrator, inspired by a background in zoology and art history, and a love of beautifully crafted books. She has a Bachelor's degree in Art History from the University of Sydney (2008) and studied Zoology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of New England. Susannah is a largely self-taught artist, and works primarily in watercolour and digital collage. She has been illustrating professionally for four years for a range of clients, producing a large selection of greeting cards, logo designs and wildlife artworks. Susannah is also a stay-at-home-mum, where reading books with the kids forms a huge part of her everyday routine. Cookie is her second book; her first is titled Where the Heart Is (also with EK Books).

Reviews
As with other EK books, the message in Cookie is delivered without being obvious or didactic. Looking at things from a dog's point of view offers a different take on mental health, and is all the more authentic by being inspired by author Isabelle Duff's own experiences, and her dog (a border collie like Cookie), who helped her through them. * Kids Books NZ *
I don't want people to think this is a negative and sad book in any way. It's the most beautiful and gentle story. It's a story of happiness that can be found in the most simple things. It's beautifully told ... a magical book. * Living Arts Canberra *
There has been much talk about the impact that the last 18-20 months has had on the mental health of our children and so this book, and the others by this couple, are more critical to know about and share than ever. * The Bottomshelf (Edublog) *
A story book to try and encourage that conversation (about mental health) from a really young age. This book is not only adorable it has a fantastic message. * Triple M Riverina *
By telling the story through Cookie's voice, setting it in a typical family setting with a light touch of humour and through the interactions of all, demonstrating how Girl's moods impact on the whole family, Duff shows that (mental health) is something that can affect any family and anybody within it. * The Bottom Shelf *
I loved this beautifully designed and written book. It is an excellent example of a writer finding their unique voice, which is an asset, especially to writers beginning their journey. * Kids' Book Review *
From the moment we opened Cookie, I couldn't help smile, it really is a cheerful yet thoughtful and simple story for little ones whether your child has anxiety or not. It would make a delightful present that's sure to become a favourite at bedtime. * School Days Magazine *


Awards
Short-listed for Forevability Literary Awards 2021 (Australia).



Book Information
ISBN 9781925820959
Author Isabelle Duff
Format Hardback
Page Count 32
Imprint EK Books
Publisher Exisle Publishing