October 23, 2020
To help children understand, cope and adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Reference Group on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings (IASC MHPSS RG) created the children’s book My Hero is You. So far, it has been translated into 130 languages, which makes it the most translated children’s book in history. It has also been adapted to various formats including puppet shows, radio plays and animations to reach as many children across the world as possible.
Sarah Harrison, Co-Chair of the IASC Reference Group on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings, describes the making of My Hero is You and the lessons learned throughout this process.