Disabilities Books

This is an excellent book for parents, educators and other professionals who teach/live/work with people who have autism.

The "jumbled jigsaw" is what is so sadly misunderstood and mislabelled by many; sadly, many such "experts" apply the Procrustean Bed tactics to the autistic population. This helps none and hurts all.

Raun Kaufman, the child for whom "Son-Rise" and "Son-Rise II: The Miracle Continues" was written, said in "Son-Rise II" that "expert" is the biggest misnomer for that very reason above. He was diagnosed with severe autism in infancy and for the first nearly three years of his life displayed behavior suggestive of Kanner's Autism. Early intervention turned the tide for Raun; now an adult, he has no residual behaviors or tendencies of this neurobiological condition. He is also currently the CEO of a company.

Raun rightfully points out that had many people listened to these so called "experts" who recommended institutionalizing people with autism, many rays of light and hope would never shine. Raun Kaufman; Walker Stacey; Gunilla Gerland; Sean Barron; Tony Randazzo; Ben Levinson; Jeremy Kephart; Ryan Hamilton; Georgiana Thomas; Donna Williams and countless others whose stories we don't know have provided the Voice of Hope for many. Each of these above people had or still have autism to varying degrees; each have either written or have been the subject of biographies about living with autism. Each one of these people and countless others have lent their voices; their experiences and their explanations of autism so as to help encourage tolerance. Donna Williams and her scholarly books, this included have certainly helped move that process along. Had the so called experts' advice been followed, think of the loss we would all be suffering today. Just read Annabelle Stehli's books about people who have been successfully treated with Auditory Integration Therapy and who are no longer autistic; Karyn Seroussi's and Lynn Hamilton's sons were successfully treated with a special diet as was Tony Randazzo, who had an allergy to milk. Patricia Stacey's son Walker Stacey and two of Catherine Maurice's children were eased of the autism spectrum with ABA and Floor Time. Jane McDonnell's son Paul ("News From the Border") offers his own insights into living with autism; he was helped by general acceptance from others and his own desire to adapt to the neurotypical world. Paul was informally treated with ABA; he was able to see what constituted acceptable behavior, yet at the same time recognize his autistic tendencies and keep them in check. This is still another valuable book that the world at large needs.

The point is, autism is as varied as there are individuals who have it and so the approaches have to be tailored to meet each individual's needs. Instead of dismissing people with autism as their label, Ms. Williams has once again brilliantly demonstrated how important it is to encourage talents and interests. She is married; an artist and author as well as having a plethora of credentials. Her works are valuable and needed; this book deserves a place of honor.

At present the count is 1 in every 150 births...autism is on the rise. There is a real need for literature like this and the sensible approaches that Ms. Williams has written about here and in her other works. Autism does effect everybody on Planet Earth - whether or not you have autism, there is a 100% chance that you are related to someone who does or work with someone who does or just know somebody on the spectrum. Autism is an in-your-face condition that is all the more prominent due to the increase in statistics.

Institutionalizing people creates a silent underclass. It appears to do no good and is not an effective method in "treating" autism. Autism is not a mental illness; it is a sensory neurobiological condition that affects sensory responses and language. I've beaten on the Different Drum for years to get that message across and Donnna Williams brilliantly accomplishes that in her books.

Be sure to read this and buy some extra copies to give to others. We all need it.

It took me well over a year to read Jumbled Jigsaw, not because there is anything wrong with the book, but because there is so much right with it. Williams is original in her perspective (I've read shelves full of books on autism, none like this) and incredibly insightful. If you have a child on the autism spectrum with one or more co-occurring diagnosis, you are likely to find each page dense with provocative information and ideas. Such a book cannot be breezed through quickly, it takes time to really go through it in bite size, digestable pieces. It also need not be read cover-to-cover but instead by picking and choosing chapters relevant to your situation.

This fascinating and insightful book can only be described as a guide and "wake up call" for everyone.

Despite the "experts" imposing severity labels on Autism that are then used by the education community to direct intervention and expectation as well as outcomes, their lack of understanding of the "jumbled jigsaw" and the personality and individuality of the Autistic person has doomed their system to failure.

For example if one simply provided one of these "experts" the diagnostic presentation of the author, Donna Williams at various points in her life, without them being aware of her "outcome", the current diagnostic criteria who have resulted in low expectations and a life relegated to an "institutionalized" existence.

Instead, Ms Williams is married and is a successful author, sculptor, artist etc. Ms. Williams serves as the symbol of what really is possible and she took the time to write down what worked and what did not so many mistakes can be avoided : With appropriate assistance, the autistic person has the best chance to become all they would have been if the symptoms of what others call the persons "autism" were minimized.

The truth being ,the symptoms have multiple treatable etiologies ,that vary from day to day and an "inside out approach" offers the best chance these individuals have.at leading a "normal" (whatever that is) life..

1 in 166 births.

The failure of the education and support systems/institutions to foster TRUE INDEPENDENCE in this population will result in not just a moral and ethical crisis in the very near future but an economic one as well. If changes in the current thinking about Autism do not occur, more institutions at public expense will have to be created to care for this ever-increasing population.

Autism affects everyone directly or indirectly and the confusion over what part of what society calls "Autism" is the gift and what part of autism is the difference/personality inherent in the individual has resulted in many inappropriate ineffective treatments and wasted opportunity for thousands of individuals.

Read it and learn then pass it on

Monica in California

The Barstow School

December 1, 2002

To Whom it May Concern:
When Christopher Smith contacted my office to review The Land of the Lullaby I was delighted to have the opportunity to consider his work. I shared the book with faculty members as well as the Lower School Librarian, Lynn Christopher who has been a faculty member for 9 years. The unanimous opinion shared by all is that The Land of the Lullaby is an innovative, warm and delightful story featuring heroes that can be proud of and it included an important message for children.

Chris came for a visit to the school and spent the afternoon reading his story to Lower School students. Our students clearly enjoyed the story and were charmed by Chris's kind and gentle manner. The students were encouraged by the challenges faced by the characters and reveled in their overcoming of obstacles. The message of cooperation rang through to our students as it will to all who read this wonderful story.

I highly recommend The Land of the Lullaby and feel that the message and style of writing will reach many students, both old and young.


Sincerely,
Lisa Pelofsky
Director of Development

Emory College | faculty of arts and sciences


I take pleasure in endorsing the work of an Emory College graduate. Christopher Smith has collaborated with illustrator Ryan Haralson to spin a delightful and instructive tale in The Land Of the Lullaby. Youngsters will easily identify with the trio of insect-heroes and enjoy their adventure along with Peek-A-Boo Trail. Their story offers valuable insights about teamwork, strengths and talents that compensate for disabilities, and respect for others who are different. But the lessons it imparts do not intrude upon the carefree whimsicality that gives The Land of the Lullaby its charm. I look forward to reading it to my granddaughter.


Peter W. Dowell Professor of English and Senior Associate Dean

KANSAS STATE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND

December 19, 2002

Dear Mr. Smith
I am delighted that your book, Land of the Lullaby, will soon be published. The creatively conceived and drawn characters of the book will provide children with and without disabilities a positive view of the value of individual differences, with a focus on the power of teamwork. As someone who has worked the field of educational services for children with visual impairments for 25 years, I am confident that Land of the Lullaby will be treasured by children with impaired sight, and that it will draw their sighted peers toward a re-evaluation of what it means to have a disability.

All children will benefit from a book that is attractive, fun to read, and full of positive messaged about what is really important in the make-up of the individual and in the make-up of a goal-focused group. The inclusion of Braille will make it truly special, as much so for sighted kids as for those who are Braille users. Land of the Lullaby is a great little book, and I know that our school library and many others will want to have a copy.


Sincerely,
William Daugherty, Superintendent

My young son really enjoys the illustrations in this book, and likes having the story read to him. The information regarding sign language and braille that is included in the book is a great plus.

I am the mother of a child with Down Syndrome and I look for books that put a graceful spin on disabilities to read to all my kids. This was a great book with great characters and the illustrations were adorable. My 8 year old loved it and reads it to her 9 month old brother who has DS. I will even admit to really liking it myself!! Thanks for a wonderful adventure Mr. Smith.

Learning Disabilities: There Is A Cure by educator Addie Cusimano (a specialist in the field of reading) is an instructional guide specifically written for parents, educators, and physicians concerning practiced and proven techniques to overcoming the extra challenges of dyslexia and other learning disorders that affect students across America. A first-rate consultation book drawn from an extensive field of practical experience and offering time-proven methods that work, Learning Disabilities is very highly recommended reading for anyone charged with the responsibility of educating a child with a learning barrier.

I am a parent of a 9 year old child (3rd grader) who has had trouble in school since kindergarten. We have struggled to understand why such a bright child was having so much difficulty in school. This book helped us understand that the problem was that she was deficient in specific learning skills that could be developed with proper instruction. We didn't even realize these skills were involved in learning. It also offered suggestions as to what we could do, as parents, to help her develop these skills. It has given us the information we need to knowledgably discuss our concerns with her teachers.

The title of my review really says it all. This book gives hope and guidance. It is written by a real expert but she doesn't use a bunch of technical words. The book is a joy to read because of how she presents it and because of the information in it. You will find things you can do right now to help your child. You don't need to go out and buy expensive special programs. Just read her book!

This book provides an up front look at how to help children deal with meeting someone who is differently abled. It is worded so young children
in preschool can understand what they should or could do if they meet
someone who is different from them. The pictures provide an additional learning tool to discuss how the children are feeling on each page. Overall I think this book is a 5 star book and could be used just about
anywhere!!
Carla

I loved this book. It is difficult to find books that discuss disabled people. This book showed the many ways in which people with and without disabilities are alike. It also told children how to become acquainted with another child and that they might become good friends. This book talked about people who need different types of assistive technology devices like wheelchairs or talking devices. Overall, this was an excellent book. I would use it in my preschool classroom to introduce different types of disabilities to the students.

I ordered this book for my sister, who's 2 year old son has cerebral palsy. My idea was that she could place it in her local day care center that my nephew attends so that the other kids could have some of their questions answered about kids with special needs. This book really fit the bill..it is clear and concise, and seemed to address lots of questions that I have heard other children asking. Other than just seeing that something is "wrong" or different, maybe after reading the book they will realize that diversity is a part of life and that people with special needs can be just as fun and interesting as everyone else! The book really helped put into words what I would like kids to know about meeting and interacting with kids with disabilites. I also ordered "Someone special just like you", but found the Extraordinary friends book to be a much better choice for my particular needs.

Hank Zipzer is the class clown-- whenever he's around, there's always trouble. This character is funny, and the Hank Zipzer books always end on a good note. (Review written by 7th grade student, Kayla)

My son and I absolutely love Hank Zipzer and the books about him! This one Hank develops a crush on a girl for the first time. It is done very well. Hank is wonderful!

one of my grandsons has every one of the books and devours them at on sitting. i am waiting for the next one to be released so i can get it for him.

This book is an excellent book for anyone who uses a wheelchair. It has tons of medical information, how to choose the perfect wheelchair, and even stuff on building relationships. I highly recommend it to any wheeler, new or old!

I found this book helpful even though I am quite a few years into my spinal cord injury. I think this book should be given out to the newly disabled so that they can see how full their lives still are. I know mine is...

A very pragmatic approach to "life on wheels", provides an insider's viewpoint with large amount of facts, references and helpful hints. Great book.

A wonderfully written, honest,and thoughtful account of life as a large person. It is engrossing and informative, even if you're a sylph.

We received Living Large at a book signing party and hadn't yet had the chance to read it. I found it on the shelves the other night and tore through it within several consecutive nights of reading well past the time I should have!

Mike has done a tremendous job of speaking to those who might know his experience, but he also offers a tremendous gift to anyone who cares about someone who struggles with weight or lives as a fat person. He tells the truth about himself -- the easy and the hard truths -- and allows the reader to see the world a little bit differently as a result.

I have recommended his book to my entire family in hopes that we can better understand those we love in our lives who struggle with this very issue.

I'm neither a man, nor overweight, but neverthelesss I found LIVING LARGE to be a fascinating book. I read it in two sittings. Berman's account of his struggle with food--with the yo-yo of weight gains, the humiliations of being fat, the sheer discomfort of the extra weight,his hard-won advice, the dynamic within his marriage--is very compelling. He's honest about the good things (and there are many) in his life, as well as the challenges.

I purchased this book for my boyfriend who now has an ostomy because I heard it recommended on a webcast where a doctor with an ostomy himself and an ostomy nurse talk about this condition. The book was highly recommended. The webcast can be found at yourhealthpress.com website and this book is apparently the only book that talks about relationships and ostomy. It was very useful for both me and my boyfriend.

This book packs a lot of information for us new ostomates. I bought it when it was recommended in one of the newsletters I subscribe to. Not only does it have everything a new ostomate needs to know, but it discusses some of the more embarrassing daily life issues. The chapter on sex with an ostomy is so helpful and necessary. The author also shares other ostomates' stories and struggles, which I haven't seen in other books, either. Plus, there is really good information about complimentary/natural products for ostomates. A must have for anyone coping with a new ostomy.

I recently had ostomy surgery because of my worsening bowel disease. The surgery has done wonders for my illness -- I haven't felt better in years. But having an ostomy is taking some getting used to. Of all the books on ostomy, I found this ostomy book by Elizabeth Rayson really helpful. It's written very clearly and addresses a lot of issues I'm facing as well as helping me with practical day-to-day care. This book tackles some unique topics you can't find in other books, such as sexual issues. Let's face it, partners can get freaked out once you tell them bout your ostomy. Elizabeth Rayson approaches the subject of sex and ostomy in a sensitive and understanding way. One point that really hit home was when she writes that if someone rejects you because of an ostomy, they weren't worth it anyway. Lots of wise words are bundled into this book.

My son (born in 2006) was born without his left hand and sometimes wears a prosthetic that he got from Shriner's Children's Hospital. His is not the myoelectric kind, like in this book, but it is still nice for him to have a story and pictures of another child his own age that has a "helper hand". I shared this book with the occupational therapist and prosthetist at Shriners and they loved it too. It's so nice to have such a young child in the book going through the same kinds of fitting procedures and doctor's visits that my son goes through. The story is really too wordy and advanced for him at this age, but I shorten and simplify it for him. It will be nice to share with other children and his teachers as he grows up.

My son was born without his right hand. This book details everything we went through getting his prosthetic. He is only 15 months old, but it is a great book to read to his four year old brother so he can understand and feel a part of what is happening. I plan on keeping this book around to present to my son's teachers to use as an aid in the classroom. The story is very easy for a child to understand, but also detailed enough that I had my family read it to see exactly how the process works. The pictures are amazing--combining real photos with drawings. Very unique. This is the only book of it's kind. I am gratefull someone is finally taking notice of upper limb differences and offering support to families.

I think this is a great book for kids to read with a grownup that can explain what is happening on the pictures. It helpes de-dramatize physical disbility in a natural way. Step by step description of how the doctor makes "Madisons very special hand" are very good. I would definitely like to recommend this to anyone that's working with or having children on their own.

This book is well-organized, well-written, full of excellent information, and inspires real hope. Hope for marriages that are struggling, and also hope for stable marriages that they can be even better. This book is so much more than the typical advice to "take time for yourselves," or "go on dates with your spouse." It's full of concrete suggestions and thought-provoking analogies that I read, and then re-read, because they really fit my life. This book surprised me by giving me more insight into my husband's mind-set, even after 6 years of parenting special-needs children. The focus of much of the book is problem solving, and successfully, even joyfully, adjusting to life with these special kids. The chapter on divorce considerations is very real, very practical, and goes way beyond what most books cover. All in all, this is a valuable resource for couples parenting special-needs children!

As the mother of two children with cystic fibrosis, I really resonated with this book. I saw my own marriage and our challenges on many of these pages.

We "special needs parents" have so much in common no matter what our diagnosis is. Lack of time and energy, high levels of frustration and unrelenting stress can take its toll on a marriage. This book explains the challenges and presents realistic strategies for overcoming them.

The authors are clearly experts in their field and have interviewed many couples who are "living it." It feels good to know that we are not alone in our struggles and that what we experience is normal given our, at times, overwhelming situation. Laura and Fran's deep compassion shines through their words and will change many lives.

For additional resources for raising special needs children, see the new book Parenting Children With Health Issues: Essential Tools, Tips, and Tactics for Raising Kids With Chronic Illness, Medical Conditions, and Special Healthcare Needs

Written by professor of counseling Laura E. Marshak, Ph.D. and speech/language pathologist and parent trainer Fran Pollock Prezant, M.Ed., CCC-SLP, Married with Special-Needs Children: A Couples' Guide to Keeping Connected is a valuable guide for married couples to adjusting to raising a disabled child. From techniques for communication and problem-solving, to making time for romance and sexual intimacy, to practical solutions for practical problems (information overload, financial issues, time constraints, fatigue, etc.), to stress management strategies, what to do when a marriage is seriously troubled, divorce and remarriage considerations, and much more, Married with Special-Needs Children is utterly invaluable in its nonjudgmental, serious-minded approach to coping with long-term, life-altering changes.