Sometimes kids need help understanding chronic illness and disability, as well as recognizing and processing their own feelings. We hope these topics are an ongoing discussion in your family, and we love to review children’s books that may help you along the way!
You’re So Amazing!
by James & Lucy Catchpole
Karla Fitch received a copy of this book as a gift from Mamas Facing Forward. She was not compensated for this review and all opinions are her own.
“You’re So Amazing!,” based on James Catchpole’s experiences as a child with a limb difference, is about a boy named Joe who keeps hearing he’s “amazing” when he’s done nothing amazing at all. In fact, Joe is just being a kid: playing with friends, eating ice cream, or even “scratching his bottom.” Fed up, Joe tries to become invisible, but then something worse happens— he becomes the source of an adult’s pity and is forced to be “amazing” to prove he’s not “poor Joe.”
This book tackles a common way disabled people experience exploitation: by being identified as inspirational (or pitied) to make non-disabled folks feel better about themselves. It’s a tricky subject since most people are well-meaning. But, despite it being a tough subject, the authors use Joe’s story to educate others with grace and empathy, sharing why it might be hard for a little boy to hear he’s always “amazing” when he just wants to be himself.
The story concludes with Joe and his friends, many of whom were introduced in “What Happened to You?,” playing together. Around them, Joe realizes he is accepted and can be “just Joe.” The book also includes a note from the authors with more explanation and tips to normalize disability.
This story is appropriate for preschool-aged children through early elementary and uses familiar, child-friendly language. Educators can also take advantage of free lesson plans from the authors’ blog by clicking the Teachers link at https://thecatchpoles.net/
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