Mein schwarzer Hund

A black dog runs through this book. From page to page, he grows larger, eventually becoming huge, but in the end, he sits obediently and small on a leash. The black dog represents the depression that accompanied Matthew Johnstone for many years. In a touching picture story, he recounts how it nearly killed him and how he ultimately managed to free himself from it step by step. The black dog peeks around the corner. He lies heavy on the chest and dominates thoughts. He sits in the mind and tears apart memories. He lingers nearby when one drinks aimlessly. Matthew Johnstone finds simple, compelling images for the elusive state of depression that can help those affected, their families, and friends: to not feel alone, to be able to share, to develop understanding, to engage in conversation about it, and to never lose hope.