Don't Call Me Special: A First Look at Disability, written by psychotherapist and counselor Pat Thomas and illustrated by Lesley Harker, is a delightful picture book about disability aimed towards children in preschool through early elementary. It explores questions and concerns children may have regarding disability in a clear, simple manner.
The title itself is refreshing. From the start, this book rejects the idea that people and especially children with disabilities are different in any meaningful way. This book points out that we are all different and that we all have both things we are good at and things we need help with. It places special emphasis on not assuming things just because a person has a disability. It also demystifies why children who have disabilities get help and what some of that help is. It discusses individual disabilities and special equipment. Finally, it shows how people of all ages can live full, happy lives while dealing with disability and helps able-bodied children realize that having a disability is no big deal. Don’t Call Me Special features appealing, full-color illustrations on every page, closing with a page of parent and teacher advice.
Don’t Call Me Special is not intended to directly help children with disabilities. It is also not about specific disabilities or about rights for those with disabilities. This information can be found in other books, at local support groups, at local schools, and through state agencies. Rather, this book opens a dialogue and helps able-bodied elementary-school children address questions and concerns. This allows a more open and comfortable classroom environment for all children, with or without a disability.
Part of the A First Look At series exploring emotional issues encountered as children grow up.
Publisher: Barron's Educational Series, Inc.
Publish date: November 17, 2005
32 pages
ISBN-10: 0764121189
ISBN-13: 9780764121180
