Arlette Jackson Uses Rainbow Colors to Explain Bipolar Disorder

Through the eyes of a child, the story illustrates how joy, sorrow, and other emotional states coexist with a parent's unwavering love. Jackson, a certified chaplain and founder of the mental health nonprofit Wondrous Pillars of Light, draws on her clinical experience at Bellevue Hospital to simplify a difficult subject. She frames the mother as a unique artist, teaching her daughter that while the hues may change, the person remains the same.

Beyond the narrative, the book includes a practical reference section detailing manic, depressive, and mixed episodes alongside the three primary types of bipolar disorder. This educational component, paired with a curated list of mental health resources, serves as a bridge for parents to start open conversations. Jackson’s background in psychiatry and religion informs this approachable style, aiming to replace stigma with insight and empathy for families managing mental health challenges.