Are you looking for a book that can help your child understand and empathize with others who have disabilities? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about children with disabilities that are not only educational, but also heartwarming and inspiring. These books explore the challenges and triumphs of children with disabilities, allowing young readers to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for diversity. Whether your child has a disability or not, these books are sure to leave a lasting impact. So let’s dive into the world of children with disabilities books and discover stories that will captivate and inspire!
Contents
- 1 Wonder
- 2 Out of My Mind
- 3 El Deafo
- 4 Fish in a Tree
- 5 The War That Saved My Life
- 6 Rules
- 7 Mockingbird
- 8 The Thing About Jellyfish
- 9 Rain Reign
- 10 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
- 11 Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
- 12 The Running Dream
- 13 The London Eye Mystery
- 14 The Goldfish Boy
- 15 A Mango-Shaped Space
- 16 The Categorical Universe of Candice Phee
- 17 The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle
- 18 The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl
- 19 The Someday Birds
- 20 The Great Unexpected
- 21 Conclusion
Wonder
by R.J. Palacio
Wonder is an extraordinary book about children with disabilities that will touch your heart and leave you with a renewed sense of empathy and understanding.
This heartwarming story revolves around Auggie Pullman, a young boy who was born with a facial deformity. Auggie has spent his entire life being homeschooled due to his condition, but now, as he enters the fifth grade, his parents decide it’s time for him to attend a mainstream school. This decision sets off a chain of events that will challenge Auggie, his family, and the people around him to question their preconceived notions of beauty, acceptance, and kindness.
Wonder is not just a book on children with disabilities, but a powerful exploration of the universal themes of friendship, resilience, and the power of kindness. It beautifully showcases the struggles and triumphs of Auggie as he navigates the ups and downs of middle school, facing bullying, prejudice, and the complexities of fitting in. R.J. Palacio’s writing is incredibly moving, providing multiple perspectives that allow readers to see the impact of Auggie’s presence on those around him.
In a world that often values superficiality and conformity, Wonder challenges readers to look beyond appearances and truly appreciate the unique qualities that make each individual special. It reminds us that everyone has their own battles and insecurities, and that kindness and empathy can make a world of difference in someone’s life. Whether you are a child, a parent, or simply a lover of powerful storytelling, this children with disabilities book will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Out of My Mind
by Sharon M. Draper
Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper is a groundbreaking book about children with disabilities that will tug at your heartstrings and make you see the world in a whole new light.
This captivating story follows the journey of Melody, a young girl with a brilliant mind trapped inside a body that can’t speak or move. Melody has cerebral palsy, a condition that affects her ability to communicate and interact with the world around her. But what the world doesn’t realize is that Melody is incredibly intelligent and has a unique perspective on life.
Through Melody’s eyes, we witness the challenges and frustrations she faces every day, from being underestimated by her teachers to being ignored by her classmates. But despite the obstacles, Melody never gives up. She is determined to break free from the constraints of her disability and show the world just how much she is capable of.
Out of My Mind is a poignant and thought-provoking book on children with disabilities that sheds light on the importance of inclusivity and understanding. It challenges the reader to question their preconceived notions and to see the potential that lies within every individual, regardless of their abilities.
So, if you’re looking for a powerful and inspiring children with disabilities book, look no further than Out of My Mind. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and reminded of the incredible strength and resilience that exists within us all.
El Deafo
by Cece Bell
El Deafo by Cece Bell is a remarkable book about kids with disabilities. It tells the story of a young girl named Cece who becomes deaf after an illness. In this book on children with disabilities, Cece navigates the challenges of fitting in and finding her place in the world.
Fish in a Tree
by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Fish in a Tree is an inspiring and heartwarming book about children with disabilities that will touch your heart and leave you cheering for the underdogs.
Ally Nickerson, the main character, is a bright and creative girl who has always struggled in school. She’s been labeled as “slow” and “dumb” by her classmates, and even her teachers don’t seem to understand her struggles. But everything changes when a new teacher, Mr. Daniels, comes into Ally’s life.
Mr. Daniels sees beyond Ally’s reading difficulties and discovers her hidden talents and strengths. He helps her realize that she has dyslexia, a learning disability that affects her ability to read. With his support and understanding, Ally begins to believe in herself and her abilities.
Throughout the book, Ally forms unlikely friendships with other students who also face their own challenges. Together, they learn to embrace their differences and work as a team. They discover that everyone has their own unique strengths, and that true intelligence comes in many different forms.
Fish in a Tree is a powerful book on children with disabilities that teaches empathy, resilience, and the importance of believing in oneself. It shows that with the right support and understanding, every child can thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of their challenges.
The War That Saved My Life
by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
The War That Saved My Life is an extraordinary book about children with disabilities that will captivate readers of all ages. Set during World War II, this heartwarming story follows Ada, a young girl with a physical disability, as she learns to navigate a world filled with hardships and unexpected friendships.
Ada has spent her entire life locked away in a small London apartment by her abusive mother, who is ashamed of her disability. When the war breaks out and children are evacuated from the city, Ada seizes the opportunity to escape her miserable existence. With her younger brother Jamie by her side, she finds herself in a small countryside town, living with Susan, a woman forced to take care of them.
As Ada begins to explore her newfound freedom, she discovers a world full of love, acceptance, and the power of resilience. With the help of Susan and the support of the community, Ada learns to walk, ride a pony, and most importantly, believe in herself.
This book on children with disabilities beautifully portrays the struggles faced by individuals who are often overlooked or underestimated. It celebrates the strength and determination of Ada, who defies all odds to find her place in the world. Through her story, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that children with disabilities face, and the importance of empathy and inclusivity.
The War That Saved My Life is a poignant and powerful tale that will leave readers inspired and touched. It is a reminder that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves love, acceptance, and a chance to shine.
Rules
by Cynthia Lord
RULES by Cynthia Lord is a heartwarming and insightful book that delves into the world of children with unique abilities. This extraordinary story follows Catherine, a twelve-year-old girl who has a passion for drawing and a younger brother with autism.
Settling into a summer routine, Catherine befriends Jason, a nonverbal boy with cerebral palsy, and Kristi, a spirited and outgoing girl. Together, they navigate the complexities of friendship, family, and the challenges that come with having a sibling with special needs.
Through her artwork, Catherine creates a set of rules to help her brother, David, better understand social situations. But as these rules evolve, Catherine learns that true acceptance and understanding come from embracing differences rather than trying to fit into society’s norms.
RULES beautifully captures the struggles, triumphs, and everyday moments of children with disabilities, showcasing their resilience, courage, and unique perspectives. It is a story that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately, appreciate the extraordinary abilities found within every individual.
Mockingbird
by Kathryn Erskine
Mockingbird is a heartwarming and thought-provoking book about children with disabilities that will captivate readers of all ages. This touching story is centered around a young girl named Caitlin, who has Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism.
In this remarkable book on children with disabilities, author Kathryn Erskine takes us on a journey through Caitlin’s world, providing a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of living with a disability. Through Caitlin’s eyes, we witness her struggles to understand emotions, social cues, and the complexities of human interaction.
Erskine’s powerful storytelling allows us to empathize with Caitlin’s experiences and see the world through a different lens. As Caitlin navigates through her own grief and loss, she embarks on a mission to find closure and understanding in the aftermath of a tragic school shooting.
Mockingbird is a shining example of a children with disabilities book that promotes inclusivity, empathy, and acceptance. It beautifully captures the importance of embracing differences and celebrating the unique strengths that each individual possesses. This moving story will leave readers with a renewed appreciation for the power of love, friendship, and compassion.
The Thing About Jellyfish
by Ali Benjamin
The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is an extraordinary book about children with disabilities that will capture your heart from the very first page. This captivating story follows Suzy Swanson, a young girl who is struggling to cope with the death of her best friend, Franny. Determined to find answers and make sense of the tragedy, Suzy becomes obsessed with jellyfish and sets out on a mission to prove that Franny’s death was caused by a rare jellyfish sting. Through Suzy’s journey, the author beautifully explores themes of grief, friendship, and the power of determination. This book on children with disabilities will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the challenges that young people face, and the strength and resilience they possess. Prepare to be moved and inspired by Suzy’s story!
Rain Reign
by Ann M. Martin
Rain Reign is an extraordinary book about kids with special needs that will capture your heart from start to finish. Written by Ann M. Martin, this heartwarming tale follows the journey of a young girl named Rose Howard. Rose is a 12-year-old girl with autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects her ability to communicate and interact with others.
Rose finds solace in rules, prime numbers, and homonyms. But her world is turned upside down when her beloved dog, Rain, goes missing during a terrible storm. Determined to find her furry companion, Rose embarks on a courageous quest that will test her limits and push her to overcome her fears.
As the story unfolds, Rose’s unique perspective and unwavering determination shine through, teaching us the power of love, acceptance, and resilience. Through Rose’s eyes, we gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be different and the challenges faced by children with disabilities.
Rain Reign is a beautifully crafted tale that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately leave you feeling inspired. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a greater appreciation for the unique strengths and abilities of children with special needs. Prepare to be captivated by Rose’s unforgettable story as she navigates the stormy waters of life and finds her own ray of sunshine.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
by Mark Haddon
‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’ is an extraordinary book that takes readers on a captivating journey into the mind of a young protagonist. This best-selling novel by Mark Haddon explores the world of Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old boy with unique abilities and perspectives. Christopher has an extraordinary talent for mathematics but struggles with social interactions and sensory overload, making everyday life a challenge.
This book offers a fascinating insight into the thoughts and experiences of a child with special needs, shedding light on the challenges they face and the incredible strengths they possess. Haddon’s powerful storytelling and unique narrative style truly immerse the reader in Christopher’s mind, allowing us to see the world through his eyes.
Through Christopher’s quest to solve the mystery of a neighbor’s dog’s death, the novel delves into themes of love, family, and the importance of understanding and acceptance. It is a touching and thought-provoking read that challenges our preconceptions about children with disabilities, reminding us of their incredible potential and the unique contributions they can make to the world.
‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’ is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming and eye-opening story that will stay with them long after they turn the final page. It is a book that celebrates the resilience and potential of children with disabilities, encouraging us all to embrace diversity and see the world from different perspectives.
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
by Jack Gantos
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key: A Captivating Tale of Resilience
Looking for an extraordinary book about young individuals thriving despite their unique challenges? Look no further than Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key by Jack Gantos, a captivating story that sheds light on the lives of children with disabilities.
Set in a small town, this remarkable tale follows the life of Joey Pigza, a spirited and vivacious young boy who is diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Joey’s energy knows no bounds, often leading him into unpredictable situations where he struggles to control his impulses. However, Gantos masterfully illustrates Joey’s resilience as he navigates the complexities of his condition.
Through Joey’s eyes, readers gain a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children with disabilities. Gantos beautifully captures the rollercoaster of emotions that Joey experiences, making his journey truly relatable to both young readers and adults alike. The author’s compassionate portrayal of Joey’s struggles and triumphs serves as a reminder that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves love, understanding, and acceptance.
While the book sheds light on the difficulties faced by children with disabilities, it also highlights the importance of support systems. Joey’s relationships with his family, teachers, and friends play a crucial role in his growth and development. As readers witness Joey’s transformation, they are reminded of the power of empathy, patience, and compassion in helping children with disabilities thrive.
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key is a heartwarming, thought-provoking, and ultimately uplifting book that tackles the topic of children with disabilities with sensitivity and grace. Gantos’ engaging storytelling and authentic portrayal of Joey’s experiences make this a must-read for anyone seeking insight into the lives of these remarkable individuals. Prepare to be inspired, moved, and forever changed by this remarkable journey of resilience and hope.
The Running Dream
by Wendelin Van Draanen
The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen is an inspiring book about young individuals with physical challenges. This heartwarming story follows Jessica, a high school track star whose life takes an unexpected turn when she loses her leg in a tragic accident. As she navigates her new reality, Jessica discovers a newfound strength and determination within herself.
The London Eye Mystery
by Siobhan Dowd
The London Eye Mystery is a captivating book about young detectives who happen to have unique abilities. Ted and Kat, two siblings with extraordinary talents, find themselves caught up in a puzzling mystery when their cousin goes missing during a ride on the London Eye. As they embark on a thrilling investigation, their unique perspectives and keen observations bring a whole new dimension to the search.
The Goldfish Boy
by Lisa Thompson
The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson is a captivating book about children with disabilities that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. This heartwarming story follows Matthew, a young boy who suffers from severe OCD and rarely leaves his room. Desperate for a distraction, he becomes obsessed with solving the mystery of his neighbor’s disappearance. As Matthew meticulously observes his neighborhood from his window, he uncovers secrets, encounters unexpected friendships, and learns valuable life lessons. This book on children with disabilities beautifully explores themes of empathy, bravery, and the power of human connection. Get ready to be pulled into a world where the smallest details can lead to the biggest discoveries.
A Mango-Shaped Space
by Wendy Mass
A Mango-Shaped Space
Are you ready to dive into the extraordinary world of a young girl with a unique perception of reality? Look no further than A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass. This captivating book about children with disabilities takes you on a journey through the mind of Mia Winchell, a teenage girl who sees colors and shapes that others cannot.
Mia has a condition called synesthesia, which means she experiences a blending of her senses. For her, numbers and letters have colors, sounds have shapes, and even people have auras. As you can imagine, this makes her world a vibrant and magical place, but it also presents challenges that she must learn to navigate.
Throughout the story, Mia grapples with the difficulties of hiding her condition from her friends and family, and the fear of being labeled as “different.” She embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking acceptance and understanding from those around her.
Mass expertly weaves together themes of friendship, family, and self-acceptance in this beautifully written book on children with disabilities. Through Mia’s eyes, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of synesthesia and the impact it has on her everyday life.
A Mango-Shaped Space is a powerful and touching tale that will leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the diversity of human experiences. It reminds us that our differences are what make us unique and that embracing them can lead to a greater sense of self and belonging.
The Categorical Universe of Candice Phee
by Barry Jonsberg
The Categorical Universe of Candice Phee is a heartwarming and insightful book about children with disabilities. This captivating novel takes readers on a journey through the unique mind of Candice Phee, an eccentric and fiercely determined young girl with a brilliant mind and an extraordinary perspective on life.
Candice, who refers to herself as a “special needs kid,” navigates the world with her own set of challenges. She is on the autism spectrum and faces difficulties in social interactions and understanding emotions. However, her honesty, resilience, and unwavering optimism make her an incredibly endearing and relatable protagonist.
Through Candice’s eyes, readers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and triumphs. The story explores themes of family, friendship, love, and acceptance, highlighting the importance of embracing differences and finding beauty in the unconventional.
Barry Jonsberg’s writing is both witty and poignant, effortlessly capturing the innocence and complexity of Candice’s thoughts and experiences. The book is filled with laugh-out-loud moments, heartwarming encounters, and thought-provoking insights that will resonate with readers of all ages.
The Categorical Universe of Candice Phee is not just a book on children with disabilities, but a celebration of the resilience and strength that lies within all of us, regardless of our differences. It is a reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are.
The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle
by Leslie Connor
Introducing The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle, a captivating and heartwarming book about children with disabilities that will leave you inspired and moved.
Join Mason Buttle, a resilient and kind-hearted young boy, as he navigates the challenges of his life. Mason is no ordinary child – he is a unique individual with his own set of struggles and triumphs. With an unwavering determination, Mason faces his learning disabilities head-on, never losing hope in the face of adversity.
This poignant story explores the power of friendship and the importance of finding your voice, even when the world seems against you. Mason’s journey is filled with highs and lows, but his unwavering spirit shines through, reminding us all of the incredible strength and resilience that children with disabilities possess.
Written with compassion and authenticity, Leslie Connor beautifully captures the challenges and triumphs of living with disabilities. Through her rich storytelling, she invites readers to step into Mason’s shoes, fostering empathy and understanding for those who face similar obstacles.
The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle is more than just a story – it is a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and the power of the human spirit. It reminds us that everyone deserves to be heard, seen, and loved, regardless of their abilities.
So, dive into this remarkable book on children with disabilities and be prepared to be moved, uplifted, and inspired by the incredible journey of Mason Buttle.
The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl
by Stacy McAnulty
Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey with a remarkable young girl? Look no further than The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty, a heartwarming and inspiring book about a child with exceptional abilities.
Meet Lucy Callahan, a twelve-year-old math genius who was struck by lightning when she was eight years old. While the accident gave her extraordinary mathematical skills, it also left her with some challenges. Lucy has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and is homeschooled by her grandmother.
But everything changes when Lucy’s grandmother decides it’s time for her to attend middle school. Suddenly, Lucy finds herself navigating the complexities of friendship, fitting in, and facing her fears head-on. As she learns to navigate the unpredictable world of middle school, Lucy discovers that she is not defined by her disabilities, but rather by her incredible strengths.
The book beautifully explores themes of acceptance, understanding, and the power of embracing one’s differences. Through Lucy’s eyes, readers gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be different and how society can sometimes underestimate the abilities of individuals with disabilities.
With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt message, The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl is a must-read for anyone looking to be inspired and gain a new perspective on children with disabilities. Join Lucy on her journey of self-discovery and empowerment, and be prepared to be moved by her resilience, intelligence, and unwavering spirit.
The Someday Birds
by Sally J. Pla
The Someday Birds: A Heartwarming Adventure for Kids with Special Abilities
Are you ready to embark on a heartwarming adventure with a group of extraordinary youngsters? Look no further than The Someday Birds by Sally J. Pla! This captivating novel celebrates the resilience, courage, and unique abilities of children with disabilities, taking readers on a journey that will touch their hearts and leave them inspired.
In this remarkable story, we meet Charlie, a twelve-year-old boy with a vivid imagination and a love for birds. Charlie’s life is anything but ordinary as he navigates the challenges of living with autism, OCD, and anxiety. But when his father is injured in Iraq, Charlie embarks on a cross-country road trip with his siblings and their quirky yet endearing babysitter, Ludmila. Together, they set out to visit their father and discover the beauty and wonder of the world along the way.
As Charlie embarks on this epic adventure, he learns valuable life lessons about friendship, family, and the power of acceptance. Through his journey, Charlie discovers that despite their differences, everyone has their own unique “someday birds” – their dreams and aspirations that give them hope and purpose.
This heartwarming tale not only provides a relatable and authentic portrayal of children with disabilities, but it also emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. Pla’s storytelling is filled with humor, warmth, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children with special abilities.
So dive into The Someday Birds and join Charlie and his extraordinary companions on an unforgettable adventure. This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of kindness, compassion, and the limitless potential of every child – regardless of their abilities.
The Great Unexpected
by Sharon Creech
The Great Unexpected is a captivating children with disabilities book that takes readers on an extraordinary journey of friendship, mystery, and self-discovery. Written by renowned author Sharon Creech, this book on children with disabilities is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the power of resilience and the beauty of unexpected connections.
The story revolves around two main characters, Naomi and Lizzie, who are both unique in their own ways. Naomi, a girl with a disability, possesses an extraordinary talent for seeing words in colors and shapes. Lizzie, on the other hand, is a determined and spirited girl who is often underestimated due to her learning disability.
When a mysterious boy named Finn unexpectedly arrives in their small town, their lives intertwine in ways they could never have imagined. Together, they embark on an incredible adventure filled with secrets, hidden treasures, and unexpected twists.
Throughout the book, Creech explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the power of embracing one’s differences. As readers follow Naomi and Lizzie’s journey, they are reminded that disabilities do not define a person’s worth or limit their potential.
The Great Unexpected is a beautifully written and thought-provoking book about children with disabilities that offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be different. With its enchanting storytelling and unforgettable characters, this children with disabilities book is sure to captivate readers of all ages and inspire them to embrace the unexpected in their own lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 best books about children with disabilities are not only informative and educational, but they also offer a powerful and inspiring perspective on the experiences of children with disabilities. These books have the power to promote empathy, understanding, and inclusivity among readers of all ages. Whether you are a parent, educator, or simply someone interested in learning more about the lives of children with disabilities, these books are a must-read. So, pick up a copy of one of these books and embark on a journey of discovery, compassion, and appreciation for the incredible strength and resilience of children with disabilities.