Writers with disabilities have shared powerful stories that help readers understand their experiences and challenge stereotypes. Through books, poems, and essays, they bring important perspectives to the world of storytelling. While many faced barriers with publishing, these artists have made a big impact and helped create more space for others like them.
Authors with Disabilities
Representation in literature matters. When authors with disabilities share their stories, they create space for others to see themselves reflected in books, creating understanding and inclusion. As readers, we can support these voices by reading their work, sharing their stories, and advocating for greater accessibility in the publishing world.
Celadonbooks.com's article, "Incredible Books by Authors with Disabilities", highlights great works by authors with disabilities, including Rebekah Taussig, Keah Brown, and Judith Heumann. These books explore ableism, self-acceptance, activism, and resilience, offering powerful insights into the disability experience.
A Unique Main Character
Some featured books include My Left Foot by Christy Brown, a true story about living with cerebral palsy, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon, about a boy with autism, and Stuck in Neutral by Terry Trueman, about a teenager with cerebral palsy. Other books, like Ellen Outside the Lines by A.J. Sass, explore self-discovery from an autistic character’s perspective. These stories give readers a better understanding of life with disabilities.
Check out the list here: https://disabilityhorizons.com/2024/03/20-books-with-a-disabled-character-as-the-lead-or-focus-of-the-story/
Have you read a book written by an author with a disability? Who's your favorite author? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Featuring...
Screens and the Parent-Child Relationship
The parent-child relationship is the foundation of a child’s development, shaping their behavior, values, personality, and sense of self. But in today’s digital world, how is this critical bond evolving? How do parents’ own tech habits impact their children?
Join Children and Screens for the #AskTheExperts webinar “Technical Interference: Screens and the Parent-Child Relationship” on Wednesday, April 9 at 12:00PT ET. A panel of psychologists and researchers will share the latest evidence on how digital media use can affect parent/child dynamics. Learn helpful tips on how to strengthen this important bond in an increasingly digital world.
- Technoference–what it is, and how it can impact attachment and parent-child relationships in infancy and toddlerhood.
- How digital media affects parent-adolescent relationships.
- The impact of parental guilt and stress over digital media use on parent-child relationships.
Register Here: https://bit.ly/4l5v9Qy
Not able to join live? Register anyway and we'll send you the recording.
Featuring...
Empower Tomorrow: Youth Advocacy Summit 2025
This FREE conference will focus on Leadership Advocacy Skills: Understanding School to Adult Life Transition and Healthcare/ Wellness Goals
Join us in person to learn strategies and resources from SPAN!
There will be a variety of Exhibitors providing resources.
***PLEASE READ***
Parents and caregivers (who can attend separate tracks) must accompany the conference with their young adult/youth. SPAN does not provide support to individuals, but they are welcome to provide their support person.
***DISCLAIMER***
No youth/young adults can be left unattended or dropped off at the event at any time.
Contact Nicole Pratt at npratt@spanadvocacy.org for any questions.
Date and Time: Saturday, April 26 · 8:30am - 3pm EDT
Location: Mercer County College Conference Center
1200 Old Trenton Road West Windsor Township, NJ 08550
Register To Attend: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empower-tomorrow-youth-advocacy-summit-2025-tickets-1236331644229?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
The SPAN Youth Chat
Join us virtually on April 2nd from 4:15 to 5:00 PM. Join Jeremy Hayer and the Youth Engagement Team, as we chat about independent living as a young adult. We'll cover everything from finding accessible housing, to budgeting and rent, and much more!
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Resources...
Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.
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