My Life Beyond ADHD: A Mayo Clinic Patient Story

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) isn't just typical distraction. This chronic condition can be challenging -- but learning key tips, tricks and skills can help anyone succeed.

Created together with a real-life Mayo Clinic patient, this graphic novel follows Evie as she manages ADHD symptoms at home, at school, and on a class field trip to the zoo. This story shines light both on practical challenges of ADHD and on strengths that often accompany ADHD, such as hyperfocus and creativity. Readers are introduced to the subtypes of ADHD, as well as management techniques that kids, caregivers and teachers can use from Mayo Clinic experts. Follow along as Evie discovers some surprising things she has in common with her favorite zoo animals -- and the zookeeper!

A beautifully illustrated approach provides a kid's-eye view of living with, and beyond, this common childhood condition. Educational backmatter includes a glossary of key terms, additional information on ADHD from Mayo Clinic pediatrician, Dr. Angela Mattke, and information about the book's creators.

Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education at Mayo Clinic.

Author: Hey Gee
Publisher: Mayo Clinic Press Kids
Published: 04/15/2025
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 10.60h x 7.80w x 0.40d
ISBN: 9798887703879
Audience: 08 - 12

About the Author
Guillaume Federighi, aka Hey Gee, is a French and American author and illustrator. He began his career in 1998 in Paris, France, and spent time exploring street art and graffiti in several European capitals. Since moving to New York in 2008, he has worked with many brands, developing a reputation in graphic design and illustration for his distinctive style of translating complex ideas into simple and timeless visual stories. He is also the owner and creative director of Hey Gee Studio, a full-service creative agency based in New York.

Evie is 11 years old and loves animals and math. She also enjoys playing with friends, creating stories, playing basketball, watching hockey and playing with her dog, Gus. She lives in Rochester, Minnesota with her parents, her brother and her dog. Evie has been learning to manage her ADHD since she was diagnosed in second grade after her parents noticed that focusing on reading, following directions, finishing tasks and especially remote learning were particularly challenging for her. She is also learning to manage dyslexia.

Angela Mattke, M.D., is a pediatrician in the Division of Community Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine at Mayo Clinic Children's Center in Rochester, Minnesota. She is medical editor of Mayo Clinic Guide to Raising a Healthy Child. In her daily work, she most enjoys seeing her patients smile and helping families who are struggling with health challenges. Dr. Mattke has a special interest in using social media to connect with patients and families and hosts the podcast Kids Health Matters.