“My Hero is You” is a book written for children around the world affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“My Hero is You” should be read by a parent, caregiver or teacher alongside a child or a small group of children. It is not
encouraged for children to read this book independently without the support of a parent, caregiver or teacher. The supplementary
guide called “Actions for Heroes” (to be published later) offers support for addressing topics related to COVID-19,
helping children manage feelings and emotions, as well as supplementary activities for children to do based on the book.
The making of “My Hero is You”
This book was a project developed by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Reference Group on Mental Health
and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings (IASC MHPSS RG). The project was supported by global, regional
and country based experts from Member Agencies of the IASC MHPSS RG, in addition to parents, caregivers, teachers
and children in 104 countries. A global survey was distributed in Arabic, English, Italian, French and Spanish to
assess children’s mental health and psychosocial needs during the COVID-19 outbreak. A framework of topics to be
addressed through the story was developed using the survey results. The book was shared through storytelling to
children in several countries affected by COVID-19. Feedback from children, parents and caregivers was then used
to review and update the story.
Over 1,700 children, parents, caregivers and teachers from around the world took the time to share with us how they
were coping with the COVID-19 pandemic. A big thank you to these children, their parents, caregivers and teachers
for completing our surveys and influencing this story. This is a story developed for and by children around the world.
This IASC MHPSS RG acknowledge Helen Patuck for writing the story script and illustrating this book.
