With his sixth children’s book now under his belt, Dr. Frank Clark seems to be an unstoppable creative force. His latest book, Ollie Fights the Sting, is a substantial departure from his other works. It gives a more personal look at the man behind the pen and may serve as a launching pad for even more great stories.
Here’s what he has to say about his latest book and what to expect next.
This is your sixth book with Argyle Fox Publishing, which is an amazing accomplishment! That said, this book feels so different from your other books. Tell us about Ollie Fights the Sting. What is it about?
I feel blessed to publish my sixth book with Argyle Fox Publishing! Ollie Fights the Sting is a story in poetic form about a cat named Ollie who experiences his first episode of anxiety. The book illustrates how anxiety can present in a variety of ways. When Ollie experiences anxiety, he becomes overwhelmed by the “shoulda, woulda, couldas” and begins to pull his whiskers to cope. A once-jolly cat, Ollie enters a state of despair, which results in him attending therapy sessions to rediscover his self-worth. His goal is to live a life of purpose and joy even when life stings.
What inspired you to write this story, and are your hopes and dreams for this book different than the others?
Ollie’s story is my story. I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety prior to my matriculation into medical school. Over the years, I have pulled my beard hair during periods of psychological distress. I felt so embarrassed by the pulling behaviors that I would shave my entire beard, a sign that I was in a state of severe anxiety. I disclosed these behaviors to my therapist of more than ten years. I am happy to report that with the help of resuming medication and continuing cognitive behavioral therapy, I have not shaved my beard in over a year.
My hopes and dreams are that Ollie’s story helps destigmatize mental health conditions for children and adults. I want readers to understand that anxiety and depression are medical conditions, no different from asthma or high blood pressure. One of the best gifts we can give to ourselves is the gift of therapy.
With such a unique subject, what kind of feedback have you received so far?
The feedback from family, friends, and colleagues has been overwhelmingly positive. I have received five-star reviews. It is also heartwarming when parents tell me that their children enjoy reading my books.
Was there ever a time when you questioned whether to move forward with Ollie? What kept you moving forward with it?
I never questioned myself because I believe in the power of authenticity and vulnerability. I was an anxious kid due to multiple adverse childhood experiences that shaped my view of self. Therapy during my childhood would have been beneficial. However, mental health is stigmatized in many communities, especially those of color, resulting in a delay in accessing care. I never wavered from telling Ollie’s story because I wanted to share my lived experience and the lived experiences of the patients that I have cared for over my sixteen-year career.
For the first time, you decided to use a different illustrator. What drove this choice, and how well do you feel Khaidir Syafei met your vision for Ollie?
This choice was a suggestion by my wife, Jennifer. She encouraged me to go outside my comfort zone given that this book has a protagonist, which happens to be a cat. Khaidir did an outstanding job. I love the color scheme that he used in each illustration.
With so many books under your belt, you likely have another up your sleeve. Can you give us a sneak preview of what you’ll be writing about next?
I am considering a series of books with Ollie as the main character who navigates a variety of trials and tribulations throughout his life cycle. Stay tuned!
Is there anything we haven’t touched on regarding your latest book that you’d like to mention?
Thank you again to Argyle Fox Publishing for the opportunity to share my joy and creativity with the world! And readers—don’t forget to scan the QR code inside the book. It will take you to the award-winning composer, Nan Avant’s website. Nan is dear friend who has composed all of the music for my books.
Yes, the music is so lovely! Thanks so much for sharing, and here’s to success!