Lake Bell is making waves in the literary world with her debut children's book, "All About Brains: A Book About People," which she discussed on "CBS Mornings" on April 15, 2025. The book is deeply personal for Bell, inspired by her daughter Nova's journey with epilepsy, a condition that has significantly shaped their lives.
Bell, an accomplished actress and filmmaker known for her roles in films like "In a World..." and "The Secret Life of Pets," has taken on the role of children's book author to celebrate neurodiversity. The book aims to provide a narrative that normalizes conversations around neurological differences, making them accessible to young readers.
"During the pandemic, we all were just trying to survive," Bell recalls, sharing the challenges her family faced when Nova was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of five. "She was having 11 to 16 seizures a day, and we were trying to find the right medication and treatments." This difficult period motivated Bell to reframe their understanding of epilepsy, transforming it from a source of fear into a narrative of empowerment.
In the book, Bell refers to seizures as "brain sparkles," a term that reflects her daughter's vibrant personality. "She’s a sparkly creature. She’s expressive and extraordinarily emotionally intelligent, because her brain functions in a way that is extraordinary," Bell explains. This positive language not only helps destigmatize epilepsy but also encourages children to embrace their unique differences.
Bell's inspiration for the book grew from a significant moment during a virtual school share day when Nova bravely discussed her epilepsy with her classmates. "What ensued after that was a peer-to-peer conversation," Bell says, noting how empowering it was for Nova to take ownership of her condition. This experience solidified Bell's desire to write a book that would help other children understand and accept neurological differences.
"I hope that it provides conversation and curiosity and generosity when it comes to neurological differences," Bell expresses, emphasizing her desire for parents and educators to feel comfortable discussing these topics openly with children. She believes that by addressing these issues early on, society can foster a more inclusive environment for neurodiverse individuals.
Bell's journey as a parent has not been without its challenges. After her divorce from artist Scott Campbell in 2020, she and her ex-husband have shared 50-50 caregiving responsibilities for their children, Nova and her younger brother, Ozzi. "We are 50-50 in our caregiving, so that’s been huge. We’ve been through the trenches together," she reflects. This collaborative approach to parenting has allowed them to support their children effectively, especially in navigating the complexities of neurodiversity.
As a mother, Bell has found solace in community and self-care. She encourages parents facing similar challenges to connect with others who understand their struggles. "When you have a child who is in need, you can only look to others who have forged a path ahead of you," she advises. This sense of community has been invaluable for Bell, who recognizes the importance of sharing information and support among parents of neurodiverse children.
Bell's commitment to normalizing conversations about neurological differences stems from her own experiences with dyslexia. Growing up, she felt marginalized and misunderstood, often labeled as a slow learner. "I felt like I was dumb, less than. I didn’t get great grades," she recalls. This background has fueled her passion for advocating for children like Nova, who face similar challenges.
In her book, Bell aims to provide children with relatable and accessible narratives that reflect their experiences. She believes that by incorporating real medical terms alongside playful language, such as humor and relatable stories, children will feel seen and understood. "It’s part of what I want to try to build, acceptance in all neurodiverse brains in a neurotypical world," she states.
Today, Nova is thriving and is currently seizure-free, a significant milestone for the family. "I have the great honor of saying that Nova is currently seizure-free, and has been this way for two-and-a-half years. She’s now 10 years old," Bell shares proudly. Despite this progress, Bell remains cautious, acknowledging that Nova's condition is linked to a genetic mutation, and that vigilance is still necessary.
Bell's journey through parenting has also taught her valuable lessons about self-care and work-life balance. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health and personal well-being, stating, "As a parent, my coping mechanisms are definitely meditation and yoga." These practices, along with her creative outlets like ceramics, help her navigate the demands of motherhood while pursuing her career.
Ultimately, Lake Bell's "All About Brains" is more than just a children's book; it's a heartfelt message of hope and acceptance for families navigating the complexities of neurodiversity. By sharing her daughter's story, Bell hopes to create a world where children can embrace their differences and feel empowered to shine. As she puts it, "When you have a seizure, you’re just a little smarter and a little fiercer, and you’re having a moment where you’re sparkling and bright." This perspective not only transforms fear into strength but also inspires a generation to celebrate the unique qualities that make us all human.
