WHEN DEVON MET OZ

Helping Children Cope With Depression

By Drs. Don and Magy Martin and Erin Martin

Illustrated by Aaron Farash

One sunny day in the park, “Oz”, a boxer dog, meets Devon, a seven-year-old boy who is feeling both sad and angry.  He sleeps often and doesn’t eat.  He worries about his school work, the idea that he’s bad at sports and feels the other kids don’t like him. Oz soon starts to follow Devon home so he can make Devon’s family aware that the boy needs help. 

   As many as six million children and adolescents suffer from depression, and the rate is on the rise. Through this gentle, touching tale of the growing friendship between a lonely boy and a caring dog, the authors notably point out the signs and feelings of childhood depression while offering reassuring advice and important tips for both children and parents on seeking out and finding help.

Dr. Don Martin has been a licensed psychologist in private practice for over 25 years, specializing in neuropsychology and family systems. Don is the coordinator of the school counseling graduate program at Youngstown State University in Ohio and a fellow of the American Psychotherapy Association. 

Dr. Magy Martin is a clinical psychologist in private practice, and with her husband Don, has written over 60 research articles and four books. She is a former teacher and principal with over 30 years of experience.  Magy and Don have two adult children and one grandchild, and reside in Youngstown, Ohio.

Erin Martin  is a doctoral student in School Psychology at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. Her major interests include child psychotherapy and sports psychology.

Aaron Farash is a freelance illustrator and graphic designer whose previous work includes art direction for Interboro Rock Tribune magazine in addition to his own urban culture publication, Advisor. He lives in Queens, NY.