Ring the Bell!

Ring the Bell! is a children's book written by Julia Penan and illustrated by Lisa Cummings for children whose parent is undergoing breast-cancer treatment. Julia wrote it after her mother's diagnosis, drawing on what she experienced when she was nine.

The story follows a child as she tries to understand her mother's diagnosis and treatment. It describes fear and uncertainty, talking to a therapist, playing games, and finding support in family and friends.

The book shares one family's experience. It can be a starting point for a conversation about feelings and asking for help during a parent's illness.

Pink Warriors' mental health resources center on the book and educational writing about coping with emotions. You can explore family reading on this website.