Who is Jack Rabbit?
Characters in books often metaphorically represent a larger group (audience) of people. When the character is developed, a reader from that group can feel as though the story is about them.
Often, children internalize issues. This is because of their level of understanding. They are not mature enough to comprehend a bigger picture, or see themselves as separate from what is going on. Everything relates back to them somehow.
"The Adventures of Largo and Jack" is a story about a rabbit whose larger audience is children with ADD. Indirectly, the audience includes parents or adults who are part of the lives of these children. According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 6 million children between the ages of 2 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADD. Recognized behaviors include lack of focus, inability to complete tasks, and a high level of energy. Incredibly, these children can be viewed as lazy and irresponsible. And because children believe what they hear, they internalize the words and accept those labels. They begin to lack confidence, are slow to develop social skills, and label themselves as "stupid".
What a shame. If only there was someone children could relate to who could show them that they are loved, and that what makes them different is what makes them special.
Enter Jack Rabbit.
Jack's behavior is typical of a child who thinks they can't do anything right. In reality, people with ADD can accomplish amazing things, not in spite of their ADD, but because of it. Simone Biles, gymnast, won the all around gold medal at the 2016 Olympics. Another Olympian, Michael Phelps, was diagnosed with ADD at age 9. Super Bowl Champion, Terry Bradshaw, is another example of someone who not only survived, but has thrived. Grammy winner, Justin Timberlake, has said that learning to overcome the challenges of ADD (and in his case also OCD) are what made him successful.
How does Jack help children with ADD? Jack is relatable in his emotions and actions. In the story, there is a very important task that has to be done, and because of who he is (a child with ADD), Jack is the only one with the skills to do it. Jack is able to do this task (and save everyone’s lives!). His friends help him to see that he is amazing, and that he was the only one who could have done it. No one else. Had Jack not been there, the forest animals would have perished. Once Jack comprehends that he, in fact, saved the day because of who he is, he makes that "jump" and decides that maybe, just maybe, he can do other things as well.
"The Adventures of Largo and Jack" is currently in illustration. I do hope that you have a chance to read Jack's story and share it with the children in your life. If they are not working through the challenges of ADD, maybe understanding who Jack is will allow them to help a friend. Because we all need friends who love us unconditionally.
-Joanne Randall, Author
