Sleepy Sparkle Thief: A Story About Parenting with Chronic Fatigue

For a child, understanding why a parent doesn't always have the energy to play can be confusing and difficult. "The Sleepy Sparkle Thief" is a beautifully illustrated story designed to bridge that gap with warmth, imagination, and gentle understanding. Join a spirited young boy named Barnaby as he navigates the ups and downs of life with his loving mum, Luna. On her good days, Luna is full of energy and fun. But on other days, the "Sleepy Sparkle Thief" visits, leaving her feeling tired and low on energy. Through this clever and accessible metaphor, the book introduces the concept of chronic fatigue (ME/CFS) in a way that children can easily grasp, replacing confusion with empathy. Barnaby learns how to adapt to "low-sparkle" and "bright-sparkle" days, discovering that love, hugs, and quiet activities are just as important as energetic play. This book is a vital tool for parents and caregivers wishing to open a dialogue about chronic illness. It provides reassurance to children, showing them they are not the cause of their parent's fatigue and empowering them to find new ways to connect, love, and support their family.