TORONTO — Beloved children’s author Robert Munsch is being applauded for going public with his drug addiction.
Munsch, 64, revealed during a weekend TV interview that he is four months clean after battles with cocaine and alcohol.
On Monday, he received support from his publisher, his fans and his colleagues.
“It’s unbelievable,” said Don Jones, who is producing Munsch’s upcoming Canadian tour. “Ninety-nine per cent (of fan letters) have been wishing Bob the best. (It’s been) very positive.”
In addition to discussing his addictions, Munsch also took to his personal website to discuss his mental health problems.
In a posting titled A NOTE TO PARENTS, the author of classics including Love You Forever and “The Paper Bag Princess, explained that he has been diagnosed as obsessive compulsive and manic depressive, conditions that led him to “make some big mistakes.”
The publisher of many of Munsch’s classic books lauded that openness in a statement.
“Our respect for Bob in his personal life matches that for Bob in his professional life,” Annick Press director Rick Wilks said in a statement posted on the publisher’s website.
“He has overcome a great deal to give as much as he has to children throughout the world. We know Bob will be successful in his recovery. We commend him for being so open, for reaching out to others, and we wish him continued strength.”
Munsch’s current Canadian publisher Scholastic also voiced their support for the author.
“Robert Munsch is a brilliant storyteller and author who has brought his gift to millions, helping generations of kids to discover the wonders of books and reading,” read a statement posted to Scholastic’s website.
“Robert is also a man who has faced substantial personal challenges in his life and who is working hard to overcome them.
“All of us at Scholastic support him in his recovery process.”
Munsch is set to begin a tour of Western Canada on May 25. Jones said the show will absolutely go on: “It’s 100 per cent full-speed ahead,” he said.