Daddy's Disease: Helping Children Understand Alcoholism

In an easily understood, beautifully illustrated style, "Daddy's Disease" helps families to navigate the difficult waters of alcoholism.

Tommy doesn't know why his father doesn't show up for dinners, or soccer games or why he acts funny sometimes. Tommy thinks it's because his father doesn't want to be with him, that he hasn't been the best boy he can be, that he should try harder. But, Mommy tells Tommy that Daddy has a disease called "alcoholism." She helps Tommy, and his faithful dog Murphy, understand what this disease is and how it affects Daddy, and the whole family. She teaches Tommy that he is not responsible for Daddy's behavior and that gives Tommy the peace he needs to foster a healthy childhood.

“Carolyn Hannan Bell has given a gift to thousands of children and their parents with her book: "Daddy's Disease". A wonderful book for children who have a parent who has alcoholism. With gentle insight and poignant stories, she introduces us to 7-year-old Tommy whose father is an active alcoholic. Like most children of alcoholics, he is confused, angry and feels it's his fault. This is where Carolyn takes over the voice of Tommy's mother and holds his hand and heart while she guides them through these difficult waters.
This is a children's book that everyone living with alcohol should read. Thank you Carolyn”
Daniel Gottlieb, PhD
Host: "Voices in the Family" WHYY FM
Author: “Letters to Sam”, “Wisdom of Sam” and forthcoming "The Wisdom We're Born With"