Shortlisted for The James Reckitt Hull Children’s Book Award 2021 

Longlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2020

Kirkus Starred Review

A Big Issue Kids’ Book of the Year 2019

A Book Trust Book of the Month Oct 2019

On Children’s Books Ireland’s ‘Mental Health and Wellbeing’ Reading Guide 2020

 

 

Jamie Lee just wants to be normal but his ADHD isn’t making it easy. If only he could control his butterfly mind then he’d have friends, be able to keep out of trouble, live with his mum and not be sent to stay with his dad.

Elin Watts just wants to be perfect. If she could be the best student and daughter possible, then maybe her dad would leave his new family and come back to Glasgow to live with Elin and her mum, happily ever after.

When Jamie and Elin’s families blend, the polar opposites of chaotic Jamie and ordered Elin collide. As their lives spiral out of control, Jamie and Elin discover that they’re actually more alike than they’d admit. Maybe there’s no such thing as normal, or perfect. And perhaps, just like families, happy-ever-afters come in all shapes and sizes.

Uplifting and moving, The Boy with the Butterfly Mind is an inspiring story of acceptance, blended families, and discovering that in the end, being yourself is more than enough.

 

In order to support Scottish charity Children 1st in their work helping children in Scotland live in safe, loving families, building strong communities and protecting children’s rights, 20% of the author royalties for this novel are donated to Children 1st 

 

Praise for The Boy with the Butterfly Mind

‘What a masterclass in empathy. This book gave me such a terrific insight into how ADHD affects a young boy and those around him. It is a great reminder that we shouldn’t automatically judge others. I was rooting for Jamie and Elin!’

Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish Boy and The Day I was Erased

‘Moving. Powerful. Relevant. Contemporary storytelling at its very best.  This is a powerful tale of polar opposites, modern family life and acceptance. Victoria Williamson has created yet another contemporary classic which should be in every school and library. Another triumph from Victoria, tackling important issues relevant to kids in a powerful and moving way.’

Juliette Forrest, author of Twister and The True Colours of Coral Glen

‘My heart broke and soared by turns in this inspiring story of two kids who seem to have nothing in common but a desperate desire for their family to be whole.’

Shari Green, author of ALA Schneider Award winner Macy McMillan and the Rainbow Goddess

‘Truly sensational. Told through two voices and suffused with real heart; empathy and emotionally-invested story-telling at its best that has so much to teach today’s children. My heart genuinely aches. A must, must, must read.’

Scott Evans – The Reader Teacher

Full of hope, empathy and true acceptance. I love how the characters’ points of view are honest.’

Marla Conn, Read-ability

‘Fantastic to have a book about ADHD and by such a sensitive writer. So helpful for empathy, understanding and identity. Everyone needs to see themselves in books.’

Chloe Daykin, author of Fish Boy and The Boy Who Hit Play