FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Brenda McAninch, a passionate educator and author, releases her deeply moving novel Heart Tangles, a book that explores the complexities of childhood, family dynamics, and mental health. With a unique blend of empathy and insight, McAninch takes readers on a heartfelt journey through the life of Pepper, a ten-year-old girl grappling with the ups and downs of living in an unsteady home.
Pepper's story unfolds as she navigates the internal and external struggles of growing up in an environment where mental health challenges—particularly clinical depression—cast a long shadow. At the heart of her journey is the question that has plagued her life: Why does my family struggle with depression and anxiety? As Pepper seeks answers, she discovers not only the truths about her family, who surrounded her with security and love, but also her own strength and resilience.
Heart Tangles is an honest exploration of the emotional rollercoaster that many young people face, especially when trying to understand the complexities of mental illness within their own families. McAninch’s writing is a compassionate and accessible reflection of the emotional turmoil that children often experience when confronted with anxiety and depression in a loved one. The novel is a timely contribution for young readers, educators, mental health professionals, and anyone who seeks to understand the subtle, often invisible struggles that come with living in a household affected by depression.
"I wanted to write a story that spoke to young people who might not have the words or the understanding to describe their own feelings," McAninch explains. "I’m sure you’re eager to know about the worst day of my life. My own experiences led me to write Heart Tangles and share it with others who might feel isolated in their struggles. My hope is that this book helps young readers realize they are not alone and that there is always hope for a productive, fulfilling life."
The novel is aimed at young people who may be struggling with the complexities of clinical depression in their family, mental health professionals, and educators working with children dealing with anxiety and depression. McAninch hopes that Heart Tangles finds its way into the hands of those who need it most—whether in hospitals, therapy offices, or classrooms.
Heart Tangles offers a powerful narrative that speaks to the hearts of those who seek to understand the difficult realities of mental health and family life, and validates that one can always look forward in spite of their circumstances.
About the Author:
Brenda McAninch has always been passionate about working with children. After teaching elementary school and then directing an afterschool program at her church, McAninch went on to tutor reading and writing at a local community college. Her experiences, both personal and professional, inspired her to write Heart Tangles. Her first book, As the Ice Thaws, was met with great acclaim, and Heart Tangles continues her mission to shed light on mental health issues and encourage conversations that can lead to understanding and healing.
Brenda McAninch has always been passionate about working with children. After teaching elementary school and then directing an afterschool program at her church, McAninch went on to tutor reading and writing at a local community college. Her experiences, both personal and professional, inspired her to write Heart Tangles. Her first book, As the Ice Thaws, was met with great acclaim, and Heart Tangles continues her mission to shed light on mental health issues and encourage conversations that can lead to understanding and healing.
