Literature Recommendations
The books introduced into students' lives shape their perceptions of the world, community, and themselves. This list offers educators book recommendations that advocate justice and dignity for disabled individuals. These recommendations undergo thorough review to ensure they align with a Disability Studies in Education (DSE) framework.
Ages:
8-12
George
"What would be like living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)? George is the little man that lives inside of Ben. Having George, Ben had never needed friends. But then, becoming a sixth-grader, he wanted to impress classmates and make friends. As others find out about George, we learn how others, including family members, react and treat Ben. Ben knows that George will always have his back, even when there might be people with misplaced intentions around him. This book is about finding out how to become comfortable with yourself".
-Katie Kulis
Ages:
12-14
Dear Little Ones
"A guide for children who experience Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), can be helpful for those who may be confused or unsure about what is happening within them. The book creates a comfortable area for the child and then explains what may have happened to the child, and why it may have happened. Acceptance is offered in the explanation that the inside people were born to help and be there to comfort the child. This book also can provide caregivers support in what to expect and how to help the child grow and become comfortable with who they are".
-Katie Kulis
Ages:
12-14
The Silence Between Us
"Maya, a Deaf girl, has to move across the country and attend a hearing school. This book shows experiences that Deaf individuals can face due to society’s perceptions, battles outside and within the Deaf community. Follow Maya in her story of staying true to herself while bridging the gap that she has felt between the Deaf world and the hearing world".
-Julia Snyder
Ages:
12-14
You're Welcome Universe
"This amazing read depicts Julia, a deaf teenager, not shying away from her identity and using her talents to make art, all while searching for her place in the world. Showing life from Julia’s perspective, the book shows all aspects of life, at school and at home. It challenges assumptions people have, gives insight into what it is like to have a translator, and includes some relationship drama. I recommend this book because Julia is an outstanding, outspoken, and confident character that young people can relate to in more than one way. Also, they can look up to her".
-Kennedy Matthews
Ages:
3-6
The Sound of Colors
"The author allows the reader to embrace the main character’s day to day life by providing vivid descriptions of her day out in the city. The main character takes us on her day of commute and lets us know what she is thinking and what she imagines, without sight, since she is able to create her own vision of what she wants to see".
-Silvia Ayala
Ages:
6-9
The Junkyard Wonders
"I recommend this book because it shows disability as a unique asset rather than a disadvantage while appealing to a younger demographic. Additionally, this book does not only highlight disabilities but presents a strong message against bullying that would teach children multiple valuable lessons".
-Jessica Chelst
Ages:
4-8
Lucy's Picture
"This book offers a unique perspective on disability, as it explores the many facets of the main character, Lucy, as she creates a picture to give to her grandfather, who we later find out is blind. She incorporates characteristics of her grandfather in the picture, such like his love of gardening and his pet dog, portraying him as more than just his disability".
-Tori Ward
Ages:
4-8
Uniquely Me
"I recommend this book because it is about accepting who you are a person. It can be hard for a kid to understand that they are, in some ways, different from everyone around them. Uniquely Me is a great book for any kid to read because of the message and the lesson, you are perfect the way you are. This book is very similar to the message behind Completely Me by Justine Green".
-Allison Riley
Ages:
8-12
Wonder
"I recommend this book because it sheds light on what August, the main character, experiences due to his disability and may be relatable to others who are also judged by their disability. Additionally, the book teaches that we as a society need to be more accepting allies. This book is best fit for those in middle school or above due to the level of reading and material".
-Jessica Chelst
Ages:
4-8
The People on Corner
"This book offers students the ability to see children with disabilities being represented in the book as main characters who are just normal children, like the rest of the kids. It teaches kids about the idea of inclusive play, while also teaching some of the more nuanced aspects associated with disability".
-Tori Ward