Xavier in the meantime by Kate Gordon

Xavier in the Meantime is a companion book to the wonderful 2021 winner of CBCA Book of the Year: Younger Readers, Aster’s Good, Right Things. This is Xavier’s story, who is Aster’s best friend. Like Aster, Xavier struggles with his mental health, which is manifested in the spectre of the black dog of depression. Fortunately, he is unfailingly supported by his loving parents and Aster and increasingly his psychological support group. Nevertheless, he continuously blames himself for his parents unexplained recent separation. His father has moved back to the family sheep farm. Xavier looks for a way of keeping the black dog at bay and comes up with a plan to not only help himself but the others in the support group. This involves turning the farm into a therapy retreat. Yet the realities of his illness make this a huge challenge.

Kate Gordon astutely creates really endearing rounded characters who face credible situations. Xavier’s self-talk is sometimes confronting but spot on. For example, the list of ways people ignorantly judge people with depression. I love how his illness waxes and wanes but he maintains his flamboyant dress sense. The description of Xavier’s outfits create vivid joyful pictures of him. Aster and some other young characters provide some humour and positivity. The use of affirmations as chapter beginnings becomes powerful as the story develops. Xavier’s growing interest in poetry gives us a different way of understanding his thinking.

Xavier in the Meantime is about knowing that you are not alone and there are good people who will help. It’s also about self-acceptance and learning how to deal with your own form of mental illness. Although the story has some very serious incidents these are cushioned in love from those around him and it is therefore appropriate for young readers with mature tastes. It also has a realistic but uplifting and satisfying conclusion. I believe it is best read following Aster’s Good Right Things and adults will also benefit from Kate Gordon’s insights.

Themes: Depression and anxiety, Friendship, Family, Animal rights.

Jo Marshall