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Michael's story teaches children empathy, acceptance, and to accept who you are because who you are is pretty great!
Step into the endearing world of Michael, a young man with Down Syndrome, and experience a delightful story from his perspective that will connect with children of all ages. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is a must-read for any young person who has ever felt different or struggled to fit in.
Drawing deeply from personal experiences and heartfelt interactions, D.L. intimately reveals her nephew's contemplations, obstacles, and victories, capturing his unique essence and viewpoint as a young individual with Down syndrome. With this narrative crafted through his perspective and mannerisms, D.L. believes in the power of Michael's authentic voice to shape his own story. She aims to not only spread awareness, but also to foster a sense of understanding, empathy, and acceptance for those who have special needs among young readers and their families.
During those long months in the womb, our bodies grow and develop from zygote to baby. A fetus has no control of the process; they are just floating in the amniotic fluid, patiently waiting for the time they can greet the world. They do not select what color eyes they'll have, how their limbs will form, how tall they'll become, or decide if they'll be born with 46 or 47 chromosomes. Michael was born with Down Syndrome; a genetic condition where a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21, meaning he has 47 chromosomes total. This extra chromosome affected how his brain and body developed but did not change who he was on the inside.
Michael's head and face structure may look differently than yours, but he still likes to do the same activities as you. He loves play video games, especially the dancing ones. He loves watching videos online and listening to music. He enjoys family trips, such as visiting the zoo or theme parks. Michael can not fly due to air pressure behind his eyes, but that's okay. Many people avoid them due to a fear of flying. Moving floors are tricky, but I've seen people without Down Syndrome get tripped up by them. Michael has to adjust how he handles some obstacles, but don't we all have something that is hard for us to do? I've known many children and adults without D.S. who find swallowing a pill impossible. I prefer liquid or powder over solid pills, too.
Michael's courageous story teaches children to treat others the way you want to be treated. Don't stare unless you like being stared at. And, just because a person looks or sounds differently than you does not mean they are unintelligent. Judge people on how they act, not how they look or sound.
Michael's story will inspire all children with Down Syndrome, autism, or
other challenges to focus on their strengths and see the positive in every situation. I recommend this sweet, inspirational book for children 4-10.
Reviewed by
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Synopsis
Step into the endearing world of Michael, a young man with Down Syndrome, and experience a delightful story from his perspective that will connect with children of all ages. This beautifully illustrated children’s book is a must-read for any young person who has ever felt different or struggled to fit in.
Drawing deeply from personal experiences and heartfelt interactions, D.L. intimately reveals her nephew's contemplations, obstacles, and victories, capturing his unique essence and viewpoint as a young individual with Down syndrome. With this narrative crafted through his perspective and mannerisms, D.L. believes in the power of Michael's authentic voice to shape his own story. She aims to not only spread awareness, but also to foster a sense of understanding, empathy, and acceptance for those who have special needs among young readers and their families.
About the author
I'm a software program/product manager juggling work while being a caregiver for my bedridden mother and my nephew, Michael, who has Down Syndrome. Michael's experiences, and musings have inspired the creation of this book. He truly inspires, and challenges me every day to be a better person. view profile
Published on August 15, 2023
1000 words
Worked with a Reedsy professional 🏆
Genre: Picture Books
Reviewed by
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