Daddy's Special Drink.

Daddy’s Special Drink

When we spoke with Chris Morrison about his new children’s book, Daddy’s Special Drink, it had only been a few weeks since the book was published. Immediately causing a sensation, the book is shaping up to be a huge success for Chris, who is not just an author but also a qualified social worker. We find out about his plans to create an entire series of therapeutic stories.

Can you tell us about the book?

This is an illustrated book, aimed towards children aged 6-12 who are dealing with a parent who is suffering from alcohol addiction.

Using the perspective of a little boy called Rio, it shows how he feels when his daddy comes home and has his “special drink”. The story takes the child through the process of admitting to a friend that there are problems at home, through to introducing the role of the social worker and explaining how his daddy can get help.

Why did you write this book?

I’ve spent my career working as a social worker, specialising in child protection. I’ve met a lot of children who are dealing with issues relating to parental alcohol misuse. It’s a subject which isn’t spoken about regularly – much is said about the impact of the addition upon the parent, but it’s rare to talk about how it impacts the child.

This book is designed to be used in three distinct ways; it’s about explaining the role of a social worker to a child to help them feel comfortable and secure, it explains the issues that children may have if they grow up in a home with alcoholics, and it highlights that children are like sponges. They absorb absolutely everything so it’s vital to consider a child’s perspective in these situations.

How can social workers use this book in their work?

It’s a great tool – I call it “therapeutic stories.” I want social workers to be able to read it to children to explain difficult situations, in a child-friendly way. My plan is to create a series of five books so that they are a collective toolkit under the brand, “Rio and Friends”. I’m currently writing the second book, which will focus on domestic violence. I’m also planning to write stories relating to sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect.

Can Local Authorities make use of this book in their work?

Yes; now, the book is being used by child protection teams at Medway Council and Islington Borough Council and I’ve had some really good feedback. I’m about to embark on a book tour to introduce other local authorities to the book and we’ve recently set up an Instagram account (@Rioandfriends_) which can be used as an additional resource.

Where can I buy the book?

The book is priced at £6.47 and can be bought online at Amazon and Waterstones. An e-book variation is also available for your Kindle, or it can be downloaded directly from iTunes. We’ve worked hard to make this as accessible as possible.

Want to know more?

If you would like to find out how you can use this book as a resource for your social work team, please email Chris at chrismorrison2@hotmail.co.uk or phone 07460 574082