Rules (Newbery Honor Book)

Book Description

Twelve-year-old Catherine just wants a normal life. Which is near impossible when you have a brother with autism and a family that revolves around his disability. She's spent years trying to teach David the rules-from "a peach is not a funny-looking apple" to "keep your pants on in public"-in order to stop his embarrassing behaviors. But the summer Catherine meets Jason, a paraplegic boy, and Kristi, the next-door friend she's always wished for, it's her own shocking behavior that turns everything upside down and forces her to ask: What is normal?

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful read.......2007-10-16

As a mom of special needs kids, I loved this book! It's from the perspective of a typical sister, which is a nice perspective. The book also shows how loving the sister can be, which is a wonderful change from most books, on any subject. A lesson from the book can be that no matter how frustrated you are, you can still be nice.

Great.......2007-10-15

This is a wonderful book about a girl's life dealing with her struggle to be normal with a pretty profoundly autistic younger brother. She really works hard to be honest with herself, and is not always successful. Unlike a lot of children's books, this one even has an ending I can live with. It's touching without being saccharine, satisfying without being overly neat and tidy. Just a wonderful book with great characters (including the parents, who veer from the stock set appearing in most children's books).

RULES...Rule #1...READ THIS BOOK! .......2007-10-11

Cynthia Lord has created a wonderful, endearing and entertaining story that opens up discussion for so many life lessons. Working with kids with autism, I welcome with open arms this enjoyable teaching tool. I would recommend this as required reading for kids from 4th grade all the way through 7th. I think the characters are realistic and they teach from the heart. It is a good tool for teaching kids (and adults) about taking the extra step to learn more about those around us. I loved the relationship between Catherine and Jason and enjoyed "watching" Catherine create new words for Jason which opened up his world a bit more. Kudos to Ms. Lord on her Newbery Award. Education, compassion and understanding are lessons this book offers. Joanna Keating-Velasco, author, A IS FOR AUTISM, F IS FOR FRIENDA Is for Autism F Is for Friend: A Kid's Book for Making Friends with a Child Who Has Autism

KCS: how to live with a neurotic sibling.......2007-10-09

KCS: How to live with a neurotic sibling

Looking closer can make something beautiful.

Sometimes people laugh when they like you. But sometimes they laugh to hurt you.

Some people think they know who you are, when really they don't.

Catherine would rather live like a normal person. It's hard enough putting up with her autistic brother, but with a potential friend next door, she feels even more embarrassed about him. And there's Jason, another potential friend. Do you think Catherine can make friends with them without letting her brother get in the way of her? (you have to read Rules to find out)
Rules takes place somewhere on the mainland close to the ocean, during recent times. Catherine is an artistic person and is used to covering up for her brother, David, but only to a certain point. She is patient enough with David but isn't willing to take full responsibility over him. Catherine doesn't really like going out in public with David because she hates the funny looks people give him (he goes around quoting Frog and Toad and his rules). however, she feels all right about him in the end. Catherine has made a bunch of rules for both her and David to follow.
David seems to always be shouting out random things, but what he says has some hidden meaning that only Catherine can understand. David goes to a therapy class/OT. He needs constant reminding to "chew with his mouth closed" or "keep his pants on in public". David doesn't understand that some people are trying to tease him and aren't laughing with him.
Jason is paraplegic and can't speak. He has to use a communication book with words in it so he can converse with others. He's pretty much like "normal" people his age in personality, but is probably more observant than others due to his disability. Jason goes to the same therapy center as David.
Jason has been going to OT before David, but only then did Catherine really notice him. His mom caught her sketching him, and that is how they got to be friends. Kristi, who would probably become really popular, moves in next door to Catherine. Catherine really doesn't want her to know about David, but she finds out anyway and their relationship doesn't get to a good start. She makes an effort to make friends with Kristi but she seems to like this guy who Catherine dislikes. Catherine gets closer to Jason but when the community center holds a dance, she uses her rules as excuses to hide behind.
I really enjoyed this book, and in some ways I could relate to the characters in it. Being an older sister, I knew how Catherine felt dealing with david. I learned not to judge people by the way they act or look because they could be a totally different person on the inside ("don't judge people by their covers") and not to restrain yourself with tons of rules. David couldn't understand what to do or what not to do, so Catherine made all those rules for them (kind of like The Giver, where if you broke one of their many rules you'd get in big trouble). But then she made unnecessary rules for herself that took away some of her freedom. Cynthia Lord's writing style included lots of details and I was able to understand everything. It had some Christian perspective in it, with Catherine opening a lot of opportunities for Jason and showing him the world in a different perspective. She learned that she didn't have to follow all those rules that she made. The pacing is a steady medium with some fast parts. The title is what it is mostly because of all the rules Catherine made. I would recommend this book to anyone in general, because there's not really anything inappropriate in it and I think everyone can relate to at least one character.

Terrific!.......2007-09-30

This is an award winning book that tells what it's like to be the normal sibling in a family with a special child. The protagonist is realistically drawn and her difficulties protecting her autistic brother from the harsh realities of prejudice and small-minded cruelty will touch your heart. Although targeted for the upper elementary or middle school audience, readers of all ages would benefit from the expressive and moving portrait Cynthia Lord paints of the conflicts faced by the members of families with special kids.

Everybody Is Different: A Book for Young People Who Have Brothers or Sisters With Autism

Average customer rating:

recommend for siblings of children with autism
Good for kids and adults
Everybody is different: A book for young people who have brothers or sisters with Autism
All for Matthew-
Great for kids

Everybody Is Different: A Book for Young People Who Have Brothers or Sisters With Autism
Fiona Bleach
Manufacturer: Autism Asperger Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Accessories:

Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer

ASIN: 1931282064

Book Description

This book is different! It is specially designed to give answers to the many questions of brothers and sisters of young people on the autistic spectrum. As well as explaining the characteristics of autism, it is full of helpful suggestions for making family life more comfortable for everyone concerned.

Customer Reviews:

recommend for siblings of children with autism.......2007-04-06

I also read this book with my daughter. I found it really helpful for the both of us. Some of the suggestions she has taken to heart and has started to practice them with her brother who is high function autisic.

I would reccemond this to anybody who has other children that needs to uderstand about what autism is and can learn about different ways to do things

Good for kids and adults.......2007-03-22

I bought it for my granddaughter who has an autistic brother. I found it useful for myself, because it is not full of psychobabble.

Everybody is different: A book for young people who have brothers or sisters with Autism.......2007-02-13

This book is quite good and explains quite easily to older children, the concept and behaviours of Autism. I think it was a little over the understanding of my 8 year old, but my 12 year old could quite easily gain a better understanding. It would be helpful to read it with your children so you canvdiscuss any siblings concerns, and troubleshooting methods for if you happen to be unavailable.

All for Matthew-.......2007-01-12

My daugher is only 4yrs old so I had to read the book first and water it down. I was surprised by how much she already new about her 6yr. old brother. She said when she grew up she would help me take care of Matthew by giving him a drink, tucking him in bed and singing him a lulaby.She already does alot of talking for him when they meet people.

Great for kids.......2006-06-27

My granddaughter loved the explanations about autism in this book. She is 9, and it is written where she can understand more about the behaviors of her brother with autism. She was even going to take it to school for her teacher to read, and some of her classmates. Many adults would benefit from reading it also.

Riding the Bus with My Sister: A True Life Journey

Average customer rating:

Beautiful Prose
This book went on and on
This was a great ride!
My Thoughts on 'Riding the Bus with My Sister: A True Life Journey'
A Lesson in Life

Riding the Bus with My Sister: A True Life Journey
Rachel Simon
Manufacturer: Plume
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0452284554
Release Date: 2003-08-26

Book Description

Beth is a spirited woman with mental retardation, who spends nearly every day riding the buses in Philadelphia. The drivers, a lively group, are her mentors; her fellow passengers are her community. When Beth asks her sister Rachel to accompany her on the buses for one year, they take a transcendent journey together that changes Rachel's life in incredible ways and leads her to accept her sister at long last-teaching her to slow down and enjoy the ride.

Full of life lessons from which any reader will profit, Riding the Bus with My Sister is "a heartwarming, life-affirming journey through both the present and the past...[that] might just change your life" (Boston Herald).

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful Prose.......2007-09-22

This book isn't for everyone, but anyone who lives with a mildy retarded family member will see this book as an eye-opening and touching memoir of the highs and lows of living and coping and dealing with a person such as Beth, the author's sister, with whom she agrees to ride the city buses with over the course of a year.

The chapters are beautifully interweaved with flashbacks to the author's childhood with Beth, who is 18 months younger than the author. The parents' coping with Beth, and how the rest of the family deals with this headstrong and independent girl without once ever mentioning the words "mild retardation" and yet determined to keep together as a family in the early 1960s bring this book to life for many Babyboomers. Rachel did a lot of research on the subject to write for this book, and inserts statistics at logical moments without ever tiring the reader.

Along with the encounters on the bus are small vignettes of the various and varied drivers who deal with Beth on a daily basis. Bus drivers are profiled coming from all aspects of society. Some like Beth, others do not, and many came forward to talk about Beth and her incessant chats while sitting in the front of crowded buses with strangers all around her. Bus drivers are her friends, are her mentors, are her romantic interests and Beth at times reminds us of our girlish teenage crushes...and she is 39 years old while the story takes place.

Although this book mostly deals with Beth and her daily bus rides around town, the author also talks about her own failings; her recent break-up, her move to a new apartment, and we see how dealing with Beth, and talking with bus drivers, help Rachel find the answers for her own troubles.

This book may not be for everyone. One must have a close experience with a person such as Beth to understand the many detailed and sometimes long-drawn-out episodes of city bus travel to truly appreciate this book. Beth is beautifully portrayed in this book, and with all her flaws and handicaps we can see a bit our ourselves through her daily bus journeys.

Read this book with patience and understanding for the mildy retarded people in our society. We all know and have dealt with our own Cools Beths.

This book went on and on.......2007-08-29

and on and on and on..............a shorter memoir maybe I could have, maybe, plodded through without so much difficulty.

This was a great ride!.......2007-08-17

Okay, so maybe not the most original title in the world, but the story sure is. The author decides to spend some quality time with her mildly retarded sister, Beth, (whom she never fully understood). Simons basically takes a very long leave of absence from work and totally immerses herself in Beth's world - which consists mainly of riding the bus system in an unnamed Pennsylvania city. But this is not just a simple journey. She experiences how Beth has carved out a life for herself, the people she has connected with, the joyful outlook she has on life, and realizes that maybe Beth's life is fulfilling in its own way. This is also a journey through her childhood as she
reflects on her memories, her relationship with her family as well as her sister. By slowing down her fast-paced existence and taking the time to experience a year with her sister, Simons certainly discovers a lot about herself, and comes away with a different, more appreciative view of her life. Hopefully you will too. I know I did.

My Thoughts on 'Riding the Bus with My Sister: A True Life Journey'.......2007-05-29

This is the story of Rachel and Beth. Two sisters close in age but share little in common. Rachel is a working woman. She barely has time for herself let alone her sister. Beth is a fun-loving care-free flamboyant woman who has an extreme lover for life and her beloved buses. Beth is also mentally reatrded. Rachel experiences gui;t for not having spent much time with her sister. She promises her sister that she will ride the bus with her for a year. All Rachel wnats out of this is time with Beth. She gets way more than planned. She meets all of the quirky and exotic bus drivers with diverse personalities. She meets thoughtful Jacob, and hunky Rodolpho. They all teach her very important lessons that reshape her life. Rachel also learns a lot about her sister. She never knows how to deal with her mood changes and odd behaviors. All she knows is that she loves Beth and Beth loves her, and they care about each other. In the end Rachel turns her life into the "big life" she has always dreamed of. This story will benefit you also. You can learn many things from this book that may just help you turn you life into the right direction.

A Lesson in Life.......2007-04-22

This is a story about Rachel, sister of "Cool Beth". Beth is mildly retarded. She lives on her own and lives on disability. She doesn't have a job. She rides the local buses in her Pennsylvania city, every day. Looking for something to write about, Rachel decides to visit her sister and spend a day with her. This leads to an article in the newspaper. The experience has surprised Rachel and it has sparked a new relationship with Beth. So, Rachel decides to "Ride the bus with her sister" and she does. Every two weeks, every month of the year. This book is about that journey. It isn't just a journey on a bus. It is a journey through the life of Rachel and Beth. Rachel learns to come to terms with her feelings and having a sister who is mentally challenged. She gives the reader flashbacks to their childhood and how hard it was sometimes. Their parents divorced when they were young. Beth was separated from Rachel and her brother and sister. She lived with their mom who married an ex-con abused Beth and her mother. There was a period time where they didn't know where Beth was. Now, as adults, Rachel wants to be a better sister and learn how to understand Beth and her handicap. This is one of those books where I now want to buy a bunch of copies and give one to everyone I know. The writing style is very personal and full of emotion. A reader learns many lessons reading a book like this. It's not exclusively about mentally handicapped people and how to understand them. Rachel's experience with Beth riding the buses and getting to know the drivers taught her about regular people and their insights on their lives and what brought them to where they are now. Rachel was amazed by the friendly drivers who befriended Beth and had more patience than she could ever know. She was surprised by their kindness and generosity when Beth needed support during an operation or help finding a bathroom. Rachel's life changed as well. She learned to open her heart and slowly let people in. It changed her life. This is definitely one of the best reads I have experienced. Highly recommend!

The Sibling Slam Book: What It's Really Like To Have A Brother Or Sister With Special Needs

Average customer rating:

I loved it as sister AND parent
Great to see everyone else's point of view...
The Sib couldn't put it down
Brutally honest, and brilliant!

The Sibling Slam Book: What It's Really Like To Have A Brother Or Sister With Special Needs
David Gallagher
Manufacturer: Woodbine House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1890627526
Release Date: 2005-03-15

Product Description

(2006 Independent Publishers Book Awards: Finalist in Juvenile-Teen-Y/A Non-Fiction category) Give teenagers a chance to say what's on their minds, and you might be surprised by what you hear. That's exactly what Don Meyer, creator of Sibshops and author of VIEWS FROM OUR SHOES did when he invited together a group of 80 teenagers, from all over the United States and abroad, to talk about what it's like to have a brother or sister with special needs. Their unedited words are found in THE SIBLING SLAM BOOK, a brutally honest, non-PC look at the lives, experiences, and opinions of siblings without disabilities. Formatted like the slam books passed around in many junior high and high schools, this one poses a series of 50 personal questions along the lines of: What should we know about you? What do you tell your friends about your sib's disability? What's the weirdest question you have ever been asked about your sib? If you could change one thing about your sib (or your sib's disability) what would it be? What annoys you most about how people treat your sib? THE SIBLING SLAM BOOK doesn't slam in the traditional sense of the word. The tone and point-of-view of the answers are all over the map. Some answers are assuredly positive, a few are strikingly negative, but most reflect the complex and conflicted mix of emotions that come with the territory. Whether they read it cover to cover or sample it at random, teenagers will surely find common ground among these pages and reassurance that they are not alone. It is a book that parents, friends, and counselors can feel confident recommending to any teenager with a brother or sister with a disability.

Customer Reviews:

I loved it as sister AND parent.......2006-11-03

I grew up with a mentally retarded sister, but in the days when nobody talked about such things and I didn't know anybody else with a disabled sibling. How I wish I had a book such as this when I was young! Throughout the book are reflections of pretty much everything I felt, at all ages. And now, I have a son with Down Syndrome, and I notice his older teen brother picking it up from time to time. I highly recommend it.

Great to see everyone else's point of view..........2006-02-17

I am one of the 81 siblings who answered the questions in this book, and although it was nearly 3 years ago and I've changed a lot since I wrote my answers, it still feels good to go back through and know I'm not alone. That was really our intended goal behind this book, and it came off well. Seeing that others share the same joys and frustrations of being a sibling as I do will never cease to help me get through the difficult life that we, as siblings of special needs kids, will live forever.

The Sib couldn't put it down.......2005-10-14

My daughter, the twin sister of a boy with Down Syndrome, couldn't put the Sibling Slam down. She quickly got taken up into the many comments and it definitely stimulated a number of good, open conversations between us. A great and important read for a sibling, and a parent.

Brutally honest, and brilliant!.......2005-05-20

An insightful, contemplative, and often humorous read. Slam book editor Don Meyer asks 80 young people what it's really like to have a sibling with special needs. The answers are as varied as the contributors.

This book is a must-read for kids and teens who have a brother or sister with a disability, and is a valuable resource for health and social workers.

Read it and know that you're not the only one who gets scared or frustrated or embarassed. And learn how others work through tough times to become mature, independent and thoughtful young people.

Average customer rating:

Also good for siblings where the older one has Down syndrome
Highly Recommend
We'll Paint The Octopus Red
New Mum of Infant with DS
helpful for siblings of children with special needs

We'll Paint The Octopus Red
Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen
Manufacturer: WOODBINE HOUSE
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1890627062

Book Description

Six-year-old Emma has big dreams for her new baby brother. But when she learns that he has Down syndrome, she worries that he won't be able to do many of the fun things she's imagined they'd do together. This is a reassuring story for young children as well as parents adjusting to Down syndrome and what it means for their relationship with their sibling or child. It concludes with helpful questions and answers for children about Down syndrome.

Customer Reviews:

Also good for siblings where the older one has Down syndrome.......2007-09-04

I bought this book while pregnant because I'm sure that someday my daughter will have questions about her big brother who has Down syndrome. I'm hoping that this book will help both of them understand why when the day comes that she is able to do things that he hasn't learned yet. Being only 23 months apart, I felt the need to be prepared as soon as possible.

This is a beautiful book that very sweetly explains that delays don't mean that someone will never be able. I like the fact that this book doesn't dwell on the negatives of a Down syndrome diagnosis, but also includes the idea that Mom & Dad may be sad. I hope that my daughter someday cherishes the book and why I bought it for her.

Highly Recommend.......2007-08-26

Great book. Like an earlier review, it also made me cry the first time I read it. It really captures the feelings associated with having a Down Syndrome child. Definitely a must buy for anyone who has a Down Syndrome child, with or without siblings.

We'll Paint The Octopus Red.......2007-08-25

This book is wonderful for siblings and young children that are related to a child with down's sydrome. Very educational. I gave it as a gift to my nephews and neices to help them to understand how their cousin would be a little different than them but can do the same things in time.

New Mum of Infant with DS.......2007-03-14

Fantastic book for my 3 year old son who has recently had a new sister with DS. Although my first reading made me cry this has been an important book for us as a family to discuss DS in a way that is meaningful to a 3 year old. I purchased 2 copies - one to give to child care as I think this will be great for all of my sons friends and also when my daughter attends!! Thanks

helpful for siblings of children with special needs.......2006-11-04

I work with parents of children with special needs and they are the ones who endorse this book saying it's an excellent resource for teaching their other chidlren about the child with special needs.

Views From Our Shoes: GROWING UP WITH A BROTHER OR SISTER WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Average customer rating:

good, but no stories with spina bifida
Helped my 11-year old daughter with her feelings
Excellent book for everyone.
Now this is what I call the perfect book for siblings!
Excellent Sibiling book!

Views From Our Shoes: GROWING UP WITH A BROTHER OR SISTER WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
DONALD, ED. MEYER
Manufacturer: WOODBINE HOUSE
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0933149980

Book Description

"I can't imagine having a plain old sister," writes Ryan Clearwater, age ten, in one of the 45 essays in Views from Our Shoes. Ryan and the other boys and girls whose essays are featured in this collection range in age from four to eighteen. They share their experiences as the brother or sister of someone with a disability-the good and bad aspects, as well as many thoughtful observations.

Customer Reviews:

good, but no stories with spina bifida.......2007-01-16

Overall I was pleased with this book. There is a great range of sibling ages and conditions in the book. That being said, I was surprised that there was not at least one story that was specific to a child with spina bifida. There were several children with various rare conditions, kids with Downs, cerebral palsy, blindness, deafness, mental retardation, autism, etc, but no spina bifida kids. The closest they came is a child who has hydrocephalus.

The market for children coping with a disability is sadly lacking in resources- books like this one are rare- and I would still recommend it to a family who had siblings, cousins or friends with any disability, including spina bifida, but I am disappointed that it was not included.

Helped my 11-year old daughter with her feelings.......2006-06-29

My 11 year old daughter read this book and even asked if she could read some of "her favorite essays" to us - she is the older sibling of our 2 year old little girl who was born 17 weeks early and she has cerebral palsy, blindness, deafness, is tube-fed and chronically ill. Her favorite stories were of the ones that she could most relate to - like the little boy who said he did not understand why his sibling was so ill when she was born. I think it made my daughter feel like it was okay for her to have bad and good emotions about her little sister. I think it validated them.

Excellent book for everyone........2006-06-20

Donald Meyer has compiled a wonderful book of essays from siblings of disabled children. My thirty year old son bought me this book for my birthday. Growing up, I too was one of these children and would have truly benefitted from anything that would have explained what happened to our family. As one of these sibs, I had to grapple with guilt, embarassment and also neglect from my parents due to the resources, both financial and emotional that were poured into my sister's handicap. My heart goes out to both parents and siblings of exceptional children. It is so much pain to bear for them and they feel even worse about complaining because they are "normal."

Now this is what I call the perfect book for siblings!.......2006-04-18

My 8 year old son loves reading me stories written by other siblings. Each story describes how challenging and rewarding it is to have a sibling with special needs. Thanks to all the wonderful kids who wrote in. My son is going to write his own story just for our family!
I would recommend this book highly!
Edie

Excellent Sibiling book!.......2005-07-27

My daughter has severe autism and it has been very hard on my oldest son (Almost 9yrs old). I bought this book with the hopes that he could read about other kids who had to live with the same kinds of stresses that he lives with having a special needs sister. He really liked the short stories written by other 'special kid' siblings and best of all, it has opened up a new world of communication between us. I highly recommend this book for any sibling who may be struggling with the role of being a brother/sister to a 'special needs' kid.

Average customer rating:

simple way to speak to children about autism
Great Book For Younger Children
a sister's response
Strong Bonds
Highly recommended

Autism through a Sister's Eyes
Eve B Band , and Emily Hecht
Manufacturer: Future Horizons
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Disabilities | Special Needs | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Special Needs | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

General | Parenting & Families | Subjects | Books

Accessories:

Health o Meter HDC100-01 "Grow with Me" Teddy Bear Scale for Babies and Toddlers

ASIN: 1885477716

Book Description

Told in her own voice, 10-year-old Emily explains her feelings and her search for answers about why her brother Daniel did the things he did. Not only uplifting, Austism Through A Sister's Eyes offers valuable information and illustrations which make it an exceptional book for both brothers and sisters of autistic siblings.

Customer Reviews:

simple way to speak to children about autism.......2007-03-23

This is a nice book to use to explain to "typical" kids what is my son's situation. It has examples that speaks to their age. Even without sitting there and reading the actual books to kids, I use the ideas to speak to friends' kids and others.
Very good.

Great Book For Younger Children.......2006-03-17

I loved reading this book with my nine-year-old. She really got a better insight into her sisters behavior. It gave us a starting point for discussion.

a sister's response.......2005-06-03

I am 10 and I have a 12 year old sister who has Aspergers Syndrome. My mom and dad have been trying to help me understand it for years. My sister always seems to get away with a lot of stuff and she embarrasses me a lot. I like this book because it really explains how I feel. I get annoyed just like Emily and then I feel guilty because my sister has autism and can't help what she is doing. This book let me know that it is OK to get annoyed and for some reason that makes me less annoyed with my sister. I don't know why but it does. Emily says that she feels like the big sister and that is exactly how I feel! I don't like worrying about my sister so I don't like it when we do the same activities. This made my mom understand a little better too. I really recommend this book because it is really true. I haven't really liked any of the other books my mom got me on autism because they weren't really about how I felt but this one is great.

Strong Bonds.......2004-12-17

This is a sterling work that I highly endorse. This is an invaluable work for people who have siblings with autism; for families; for educators and other interested persons.

Emily's older brother Daniel has autism. She naturally wants to know why she cannot communicate with him consistently and what prompts him to behave and respond as he does. Emily's parents acknowledge Emily's anger, concern and other feelings and allow her to explore. I like the conversations they had. I also like the way Daniel is accepted and how some of his more outlandish behavior is explained and not condoned. Reasonable expectations are set for Daniel, always with the hope of contant, continued improvement.

The dynamics among this family are what makes this book so strong. It is a book that will resonate in one's mind long after finishing the last page.

Highly recommended.......2001-07-19

"I really liked the way this book presents information about autism and Aspergers in such a clear way for children. Kids will find it easy to read and relate to Emily's story and actual experiences. It's a real treasure for kids who have a brother or sister with high-functioning autism or Aspergers, and a heart-warming read for their parents, too."

Average customer rating:

Perfect book to read to younger kids
Appropriate and Enjoyable
Need conclusion
Good resource for inclusion - it gets the kids talking
Good Story, But May Overgeneralize...

Andy And His Yellow Frisbee
Mary Thompson
Manufacturer: WOODBINE HOUSE
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0933149832

Book Description

Andy and His Yellow Frisbee is a heartwarming and educational children's book about a boy with autism. Like many children with autism, Andy displays a fascination for objects in motion. He spins things-coins, dinner plates, and when at school, his yellow frisbee. It's Andy's special talent, combined with a new student's curiosity about his behavior that sets this story in motion. Rosie, the watchful and protective sister supplies background information about Andy and autism, as well as a sibling's perspective.

Beautiful watercolor illustrations enhance the story. Recommended for elementary school-aged children, Andy and His Yellow Frisbee is of particular interest to siblings of children with autism, and friends and classmates.

Customer Reviews:

Perfect book to read to younger kids.......2007-05-07

A wonderful resource to have as part of your professional library when working with children.

Appropriate and Enjoyable.......2006-06-29

This book is a great one for reading with neurotypical children who have friends, classmates, and/or siblings on the autism spectrum. It is well written, has nice pictures, and lends itself easily to discussions.

I disagree with the person whose review states that the "sterotypical" behavior of the child spinning the frisbee is a negative thing. This is simply one example of a type of sensory need our friends on the spectrum have, and it opens the door to discussion about it.

Need conclusion.......2005-09-18

Its a good book that shows some of the particular way of behavior of a kid affected whit Autism, however it doesn't get to any conclusion or way to get to the kid or understand him.

Good resource for inclusion - it gets the kids talking.......2005-01-13

When I first read this book I was not crazy about it; I tend not to like books directed at kids that are overtly about autism because the kids automatically know that it is a "lesson" book rather than a story book. But of all the books I bought in an effort to give the regular education teacher a tool for talking with my son's typical classmates about his autism, this is the one that my typical 10 year old daughter selected. We have used it for three years and each time the teacher has said it generated an interesting and sensitive dicussion among the children (grades 1-3). Of course it takes a good teacher to lead the discussion, too, but this book has proved to be a valuable resource.

Good Story, But May Overgeneralize..........2004-05-15

As an educator who works with young children with autism and an inclusion specialist who educates typical students about disability awareness, I must caution about the stereotyping risk of this book. Autism is too complicated to simplify into one boy and his spinning frisbee. The book portrays a boy who, "wanted to be in his own world just about all the time." True, many kids with autism prefer to play alone, but also there are many who would like to play with others but do not know how to initiate play or respond to typical play situations. Others love to be hugged and enjoy some social interaction. There is such a wide spectrum of autism, and I'm really not sure how one book could capture it, so maybe it's not fair to criticize. The book could certainly begin a discussion. But it should be noted that, without follow-up discussion or further education, the wording in this book could lead some people to believe that all people with autism want to be left completely alone. Simply not that simple.

Special Siblings: Growing Up With Someone With a Disability

Average customer rating:

Approachable and Helpful
A must read for anyone with a disabled sibling.
A different point of view.....
Mary McHugh knows how to personally touch people
A Special View of Life's Longest Relationship

Special Siblings: Growing Up With Someone With a Disability
Mary McHugh
Manufacturer: Hyperion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0786862858

Book Description

In this absorbing and candid book, Mary McHugh reveals what she experienced as the sister of a man with cerebral palsy and mental retardation — and shares what others have learned about being and having a "special sibling." Weaving a lifetime of memories and reflections with relevant research and interviews with more than 100 other siblings and experts, McHugh explores a spectrum of feelings — from anger and guilt to love and pride — and helps readers understand the issues siblings may encounter in

childhood — such as dealing with their own needs for attention and information, identifying with their parents' grief, understanding their sibling's disability, and coping with their own feelings

adolescence — such as participating in family discussions, fitting in with peers, searching for their own identity, and talking to a counselor or therapist

adulthood — such as building a support system, navigating adult relationships, deciding whether to have children, and planning for their sibling's future care

Emotional and enlightening, this book is a must-read for teen and adult siblings — and all professionals who support people with disabilities and their families.

Customer Reviews:

Approachable and Helpful.......2006-11-05

McHugh's book puts a new perspective out there for siblings of the disabled to come to grips with many of the endemic problems that this population of people (myself being one of them) deals with. Great for adults in understanding where they are coming from and really great for kids in understanding why they feel differently about siblings than their friends might. While there are other books out there, this one puts a bit of a "feel-good spin" on having siblings with disabilities, particularly in the last chapter. Sometimes you need to wallow in the frustration for a while and understand the negative consequences and their impact before you can see the positives, which is the only reason that this book gets four of five stars - aside from that, this is an excellent, helpful book that does a fantastic job of explaining the dilemma of having a sibling with a disability.

A must read for anyone with a disabled sibling........2004-03-18

First of all, I really wish that people who have not grown up with a disabled sibling would not write negative reviews of this book because they just don't know what it is like. My sister had polio and her illness and subsequent operations took all of my families' resources both financial and emotional. I grew up thinking that I was unimportant and that maybe if I was sick too, I would get attention. My earliest thoughts were those of wishing that I would just die so I didn't have to feel so bad/guilty all the time. Kids that grow up with disabled siblings often feel that they did something wrong to cause the disability. My middle sister and I both felt that way, yet we weren't even born when it happened.

Ms. McHugh has written an incredibly honest book that will be greatly appreciated by anyone else in this situation. We live in a world of silence and isolation, how can you ever complain when you can walk, talk, hear, etc. You would be considered extremely selfish. The life of a sibling of a disabled person is very distorted.

Thank you, Ms. McHugh for your courage.

A different point of view............2003-08-29

There is a great need for enlightened books on the topic of growing up with a sibling with a disability. Unfortunately, this book does not answer that need.

Ms. McHugh feels the common denominator between her and the other siblings who lament their sibling is the issue of disability. In fact, the common demoninator is self-pity. Most of us in this world have issues with their childhood, whether they be a sibling with a handicap, an abusive parent, a dead beat dad, or an overachieving brother. We all carry many scars. It is not the challenges that we face, but what we make of those challenges.

Having a loved one with a disability does not change our essential truth. Yes, it may be difficult at times, but life is, difficult that is. The challenge of facing a disability on a daily basis only makes you more of what you already are. Sometimes that's good, in this case it's very sad.

Ms. McHugh may be the sibling of a man with a disability. But she is the one truly handicapped. Handicapped by her inability to stop using the disability as a crutch. The disability nor your brother are the source of your pain, anger and suffering. It is the inability to deal with it in a productive manner.

The next book I'd like to read from Ms. McHugh would be about people with disabilities and how they tolerate the whiny, self-important, shallow ramblings of their very confused siblings.

Mary McHugh knows how to personally touch people.......2003-05-09

I bought this book because I have a child with a disability, and I wanted to do what I can to be helpful to my three other children. It was a wonderful read! It reassured me, which is something all mothers need a lot of. It also reminded me that vigilance about sibling excesses is in order. After reading it, I reminded my children that they don't have to grow up to be superstars in some kind of effort to compensate for what my one child lacks.
I enjoyed the author's willingness to be so honest about her feelings, yet even when revealing negative feelings, she asserted a positive spin by contrasting her feelings with more positive feelings of others. It's clear that much of her difficulty had to do with being raised in a different time -- when there was little help, and when disability was considered shameful and secret. My favorite section of this book is the discussion of the common phenomenon of siblings entering the helping professions as adults. She has a fresh and interesting take on this topic.

A Special View of Life's Longest Relationship.......2002-11-24

It's been called life's longest relationship, and our bond with our siblings usually is just that. Who else could witness our joys and sorrows and put their arms around us through all of life's seasons? With whom else will we share such conflicted feelings of love, hate, rivalry, and reconciliation for so long? To a large extent the biblical tragedy of Cain and Abel haunts every family and every generation. Therefore learning to navigate and face these intense and uncomfortable feelings is a passageway to a healthy adulthood.

As if hurt, resentment, anger, and rage aren't enough, the family crucible is even more complex when a sibling is born with or develops a disability. Parents struggle to be fair to the special and unique needs of each child. Typically developing children watch their parents struggle and feel their own grief as well for what might have been-along with embarrassment and guilt. In the new revised edition of Special Siblings: Growing Up with Someone with a Disability, Mary McHugh helps readers to understand that life's inequities are unavoidable.

"Children who grow up with a brother or sister with a disability learn early that life is unfair," says Mary McHugh, an accomplished writer and the sibling of Jack, a man with cerebral palsy and mental retardation. "They have to learn that often the child with the disability must come first; they must face the fact that not everyone will want to be their friend because of the sibling with the disability; they must learn to accept that people will often stare at their brothers and sisters.... My advice for them is all these things are hard lessons to learn but they make you strong enough to deal with anything life presents you with when you are an adult."

McHugh's research for this book included interviews with more than 100 siblings - in their teens, 20's 30's and 40's - of people with special needs in an effort to understand her own feelings. Her inquiries show that they share more than a brother or sister with a disability. "Growing up with a special sibling makes you compassionate and kind to every human being you meet; it makes you a good problem solver; it makes you tolerant of religious differences, racial differences, other disabilities, old people, etc. It often makes you an achiever who works to make the world a better place. In short, you will probably be the kind of person other people want as a friend."

As Don Meyer, director of the Sibling Support Project, at Children's Hospital of Seattle writes, "In her remarkably wise book, Mary McHugh masterfully blends her experiences and the experiences of others with insights from clinical research. Although McHugh doesn't shy away from the troublesome aspects of sibling relationships, Special Siblings also describes the remarkable attributes seen in many brothers and sisters of people with special needs."

Throughout the book, as Brookes Publishing outlines, McHugh explores the spectrum of feelings- from anger and guilt to love and pride - and helps readers understand the issues siblings may encounter in

· childhood - such as dealing with their own needs for attention and information, identifying with their parents' grief, understanding their sibling's disability, and coping with their own feelings

· adolescence - such as participating in family discussions, fitting in with peers, searching for their own identity, and talking to a counselor or therapist

· adulthood - such as building a support system, navigating adult relationships, deciding whether to have children, and planning for their sibling's future care

McHugh wants siblings to understand that they are not alone. She has included an extensive list of resources in the back of her book. She urges people to go to sibling support groups and talk to other siblings about our often-unacceptable feelings where they will find unconditional acceptance. The one thing Mary McHugh would like to assure every special sibling: "That you will probably grow up to be a very fine person: strong, compassionate able to cope with just about anything that comes along, loving, tolerant, an achiever who will make a difference in the world. The world will be a better place because you're in it."

Readers may wonder if things would be different for McHugh if she and her brother were growing up today. While attitudes toward people with disabilities have improved and access to services has generally increased, family dynamics have remained largely unchanged. The family is our most intimate social setting, and it is there that we are the most vulnerable. Communicating about our pain and resentment diffuses our anger and allows for healing and lifelong cooperation. These are lessons we all must learn, and in this regard children with special needs can be a catalyst.

Emotional, wise and intelligent, this book is a must-read for teen and adult siblings. This is also an indispensable resource for parents who are agonizing over how to do their jobs fairly-one of the most common questions I am asked in my role as a psychologist who specializes in the family life issues. Professionals who support people with disabilities and their families will be likewise enlightened in their roles. Complex matters are so often made clear by the simple yet profound reflections of children. Special Siblings by Mary McHugh is a special contribution that succeeds because it captures the essence of that voice from siblings of all ages including herself.
Special Children, Challenged Parents: The Struggles and Rewards of Raising a Child With a Disability

Average customer rating:

wonderful picture of an Autistic child
kid friendly informative, yet still innocent
Amazing story about a family with autism
A great read book for kids!
Ian's Walk: A Story About Autism

Ian's Walk: A Story About Autism
Laurie Lears
Manufacturer: Albert Whitman & Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0807534811

Customer Reviews:

wonderful picture of an Autistic child.......2007-08-09

I purchased this book to give to friends and family members; and I was not disappointed.
I am fortunate that my 4year old Autistic son, is quite high functioning, but there are so many things in this book that have a resonance for us as a family.
I gave this book to the nursery staff at my sons nursery school as a present. The staff all read it and found it as touching as I did. I think it also illustrates a very important point, that is of 'acceptance'. I have found it very liberating to go with my son's world rather than rail against it. Thoroughly recommended.

kid friendly informative, yet still innocent.......2007-06-11

This is a great classroom resource for any teacher of pre-k on up to 4. I am amazed at how much children can grasp and this book will help them to understand their friend, who may be challenged. I am keeping it on my shelf at school next school yr.

Amazing story about a family with autism.......2007-03-11

As a therapist who works with children with autism, I really enjoyed this book. It teaches children that although their siblings may be different they can still love them and take care of them. I really enjoyed the way the author described what Ian saw on his walk that differed from what other children would see. I also liked how the sibling evolved from thinking that their brother was "weird" to understanding that he is different and still loving him. I was a very well written story about autism and families

A great read book for kids!.......2005-10-21

I purchased this book to help other kids understand our 5 yr. old daughter, Tori, who has autism. I sent it to school and they read it to the kids and the teachers thought it was great. Tori loves us to read "Ian's Walk" just about daily.

Ian's Walk: A Story About Autism.......2005-09-23

We are fortunate enough to have an inclusion class in our building that services children with autism. As an experienced kindergarten teacher, I was looking for a book that would appropriately explain "autism" to my regular ed. class of 5 and 6 year olds. And, Ian's Walk: A Story About Autism is MOST appropriate! :-) Is shows that even though Ian looks like any child in my class, his brain works differently but that's okay. My children know that THE most important part of any person is their heart. So, even though Ian may think differently, as explained in the book, he has a very kind heart. And, that is what matters most! :-)
Also, may I suggest Someone Special Just Like You by Tricia Brown to use along with Ian's Walk. In Someone Special...it has beautiful photographs of children using walkers and wheelchairs, etc. My class can visually SEE that the children are "different" and better understand the concept of a disability. But again, I stress a person's heart being THE most important part of any person! Then, the next day, I read Ian's Walk... and the children then see that Ian looks like us but acts differently. :-)
If anyone out there has other suggestions, please email me.
Most sincerely,
Cindy Buckley
buckley.cynthia@bpsd.org

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