This post is sponsored by Carmen Hernández. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.
MY REVIEW
In My Mind is a gentle, heartfelt picture book that captures the emotional whirlwind of a child’s first day of school in a way that feels honest and deeply familiar. The story follows Camilo, a young boy who is both excited and terrified to start school, and from the very first pages, I felt how overwhelming the classroom is for him. The noise, the expectations, and the pressure to keep up all blur together, making it hard for him to focus or speak up.
What I appreciated most was how clearly the book shows what it feels like inside Camilo’s mind. His thoughts wander easily, and everyday moments turn into daydreams—like when his fingers become toy soldiers or when the classroom carpet suddenly feels like a bed. These small details made Camilo feel real, not like a lesson or a stereotype. You can tell the story understands children who think differently rather than trying to fix them.
I also loved the contrast between the classroom and recess. When Camilo gets outside, especially during soccer, everything clicks. He shines, connects with other kids, and finally feels confident. That shift was powerful and quietly affirming. The illustrations support this beautifully, using color and expression to mirror Camilo’s emotional ups and downs throughout the day.
Overall, In My Mind is a warm, empathetic story that gently raises awareness about ADHD while centering joy, imagination, and self-worth. It’s a wonderful choice for parents, teachers, and children who want to feel seen and understood, especially during those big, nerve-wracking first days of school.
GIVEAWAY
Enter for the chance to win one of three hardcover copies of In My Mind by Carmen Hernández, a thoughtful story that captures the ups and downs of a child’s first day of school.
In My Mind: Book GiveawayABOUT THE BOOK
Written by Carmen Hernández
Illustrated by HV Helmut
Ages: 3-8 | 38 Pages
Publisher: Mascot Kids! (2026) | ISBN: 979-8891382909
Publisher’s Book Summary: 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 LINK
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.
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