I've been gifting copies of another Abbey Press Elf book, Forgiveness Therapy for years, yet I was still surprised at how spot on Elf-help for Overcoming Depression is. This is not a do-it-yourself manual for overcoming depression. Tip No. 3 states, "Information is your best weapon against depression. Learn all you can about its causes, types, treatments." No. 6 is "Because depression frequently has physical causes and effects, to really 'cheer up' or 'snap out of it' often requires medical assistance. Turn to the experts who can help you treat it and defeat it." These are two of the 38 tips, each occupying a page in this tiny (4x6") book with a black line-drawing illustration on its facing page. Whether reading at a sitting or using it as a daily meditation, its words are well-written comfort—even if you're just feeling a little blue. ( )

One piece of advice per page. Cute elfin illustrations. Found in a hospital gift shop - would be perfect for a patient gift. Small and not too demanding. The advice is good - the same stuff I'm hearing from my counselor. Makes me feel more calm and peaceful. ( )