Natural Harmony: Jade's Story [Paperback]

Gail Albrechtson (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 13, 2003

The moving and unforgettable life story of an endearing little girl born with distinct challenges. Her whimsical, loving spirit captured the hearts of everyone she met.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

I grew up in Montreal, Quebec, the fourth of eight children. I now live in Victoria, British Columbia with my husband and three children. Having earlier had a child with Down syndrome and a congenital heart defect, I had long felt the need to convey the spirit and meaning of my daughter Jade's brief life. In writing Natural Harmony, my intention was to move, to inspire, and to educate people about the injustices dealt to those born with distinct challenges. As well, I wanted to share some of the joy that I found in the love and laughter of my sweet little girl. Praise for Natural Harmony An affectionate memoir . . . poignant . . . humorous . . . deeply affecting. -Sidney Allinson, Victoria Times Colonist newspaper I laughed at some parts, cried at others, felt anxious, distressed, happy, hopeful-it did exactly what a book needs to do-give the reader feelings. A sensitively written work full of love and insight. A book as special as the child whose story it tells. -Ann Alma, author of bestselling novel, Summer of Changes This book will have you experiencing every emotion: joy, anger, sadness, and everything in between. Any parent of a child with Down syndrome will be able to relate to Gail and Jade's heartwarming story-and it is a blueprint for how we should all fight for our children's rights. -Dennis Dykes, director, Canadian Down Syndrome Society Undeniably inspiring . . . a most enjoyable read! -Ann Jonaitis, National Association for Down Syndrome I was captivated with the turn of every page. -Heidi Dauer, Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, Inc. Easy to read and hard to put down. -Kathryn Sadgrove, New Zealand Down Syndrome Association This honest account of a short but powerful little life elicits strong emotions. A good read for parents, professionals, educators and the general community. We can all learn through the eyes of a loving mother and a vibrant child. -Sue Wilson, Down Syndrome Association

Product Details

• Paperback: 204 pages
• Publisher: Trafford Publishing (June 13, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 141200392X
• ISBN-13: 978-1412003926
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,744,686 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Natural Harmony Jade's Story, December 27, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: Natural Harmony: Jade's Story (Paperback)

This book is absolutely wonderful!!! It brought tears of understanding/joy/sorrow for me, who am also a Mom of a Down Syndrome daughter with heart defects!! It tells the struggles of what parents face on a daily basis. Excellent!! It encouraged me to write OUR own story!!!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Natural Harmony: Jade's Story ............. Molly's Review, November 27, 2004

By 

molly martin (oklahoma usa) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Natural Harmony: Jade's Story (Paperback)

Gail devoted much time to her daughter, not unusual for any parent. She quickly learned that while there is often much verbiage about `programs' and the like; reality is parents of a handicapped child face many brick walls: day care, schools and society at large often do not want any in their midst but the `normal' kid. Jade was born at a time when many Downs and other `different' kids were shunted into facilities where they were allowed to live as eternal children simply because no one knew or accepted that these kids can and will learn. They learn a bit less, at a slower rate, but learn they do just as do their peers. As Gail and Jade sat by the lake and watched `wheeshes' fly by, or visited the mall at Christmastime the pair behaved as any `normal' parent and child enjoying the day and time spent with each other.

Natural Harmony Jade's Story is an excellent addition to the home library for those who enjoy a true slice of life type work. Counselors, teachers and new parents of a Downs child alike will find comfort and benefit from reading of Jade's life and her love of life as told through the eyes of her mother.

Excellent read, happy to recommend.


Reviewed by: molly martin
http://www.angelfire.com/ok4/mollymartin
http://www.AuthorsDen.com/mjhollingshead
QMRP-qualified mental retardation professional
20+ years public school teacher.

5.0 out of 5 stars Natural Harmony Jade's Story, December 27, 2003

By 

Patti L. (Cherry Valley, CA United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Natural Harmony: Jade's Story (Paperback)

This book is absolutely wonderful!!! It brought tears of understanding/joy/sorrow for me, who am also a Mom of a Down Syndrome daughter with heart defects!! It tells the struggles of what parents face on a daily basis. Excellent!! It encouraged me to write OUR own story!!!!