Mitchell Itches

“And while this is specifically about eczema, there is also an underlying message about discovering something that we love to indulge in and completely distract us from whatever is troubling us. In fact, it is not indulgent, it’s necessary to give the brain a break so it can be refreshed and renewed when reality impacts again. So all sorts of lessons for all of us. “ 
- The Bottom Shelf 
“Author Kristin Kelly pens a terrific, heartwarming story about a subject criminally underacknowledged in children's books - so many kids live with eczema or skin conditions (I Have personal family history of it myself) and this book is a fantastic resource to help those kids know they are not alone! Children or adults with eczema will take away from the tried-and-tested methods Mitchell uses in the story to control his eczema (there is even an addendum at the end of the story with tips for kids on how to manage the condition). But most importantly, the story focuses on finding your own joy and passion and inspires kids to follow their dreams and take part in activities they love, to never give up or let yourself be limited by anything. Kelly's text is bright and warmly embracing and she brings a lovable character alive in Mitchell who the readers will root for. Coupled with Amelina Jones' evocative illustrations, which bring vibrancy and colourful in creating the world of the story, Mitchell Itches is a fantastic story ideal for kids with eczema but also any kids who like a terrific book. This one is ideal for all teachers and parents to bring into the classroom or home to begin discussions. Thank you Kristin Kelly and Amelina Jones for creating a superb, winsome story with a fresh take on a much-needed topic in children's books today. Highly recommended."
- Brenton Cullen, Kids Books Review
“This is a sweet educational book targeted at children who suffer from eczema with fun and engaging illustrations by Amelina Jones. It includes an appendix page of facts about managing eczema as a useful reference for parents.” Buzz Words, “This is a success story. One that will speak and offer hope to many sufferers of eczema and allergies, who feel their lives can never be normal. Mitchell Itches is a wonderful example of what you have, doesn’t define who you can become. Amelina Jones’ luxurious and expressive, full-page illustrations, are entertaining and beautifully support Kristen Kelly’s well-researched, clever, and humorous text”.
- Kids’ Book Review
“This is a sweet educational book targeted at children who suffer from eczema with fun and engaging illustrations by Amelina Jones. It includes an appendix page of facts about managing eczema as a useful reference for parents.”
- Buzz Words
“In Australia, one in three children live with eczema and this story provides much-needed representation to a common condition. The story and information in the end pages, helps children have compassion and empathy to go further than only knowing someone skin deep.”
- Love for Reading (via Instagram 61.5K followers)
“A useful and uplifting school, library or home resource for 4-8 year old, showing the lived experience of an eczema sufferer, who is resilient, positive and just gets on with life..”
- Story Links
“Mitchell Itches’ is an inclusive book that’s perfect for preschools and schools to help educate children about this sometimes debilitating condition and how to treat it. It’s also a great story about a kid who does his best and always approaches life with a positive outlook.“
- Little Darlings
“A great story, this book teaches us about someone’s experiences with this condition and how over time you can learn to live with this condition .” 
- Literacy, Families and Learning
A terrific, heartwarming story about a topic criminally underacknowledged in children’s books - so many kids live with eczema or skin conditions. This book is a fantastic resource to help those kids know they are not alone. 
- Magpies Magazine
“What I really love about this book is that it encourages children to show compassion and kindness to other kids. It gives them an insight into something that they may not be familiar with, but something that is really common and a lot of kids deal with.” 
- Kids Get Booked (via Instagram)
“Despite the itchiness, teasing and stress Mitchell says strong while experiencing chronic eczema”
Peninsula Kids
 “This is a wonderful book and important book. What a joy to see a child with eczema represented in a picture book. It affects 1 in 4 Australian children.”
- Picture Book Book Club (via Instagram)
“1 in 5 Australian children lives with eczema. This book will be helpful to so many. Our protagonist, Mitchell is one of these children. This book is both a window and a mirror. It reflects the daily challenges faced by children with eczema. It also serves to teach children how they can support friends with this skin condition..”
 - Oh Creative Day (via Instagram 41K followers)