Never Sell Yourself Short (Concept Books (Albert Whitman)) [Hardcover]

Stephanie Riggs (Author), Bill Youmans (Photographer)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 2001 | Grade Level: 1 and up | Series: Concept Books (Albert Whitman)

Fourteen-year-old Josh was born with achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism. In this photo-essay, Josh talks about his life, describing the challenges he faces along with his plans for the future.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Gr 2-5-Josh has a medical condition called achondroplasia, a type of dwarfism that results in short limbs and short stature. As evidenced in this photo-essay, everyday living can be a challenge. However, with a confident attitude, supportive family and friends, and adjustments to physical surroundings, the teen is well adjusted and a school leader. The color photographs of him at home, at school, and at play are wonderful. Readers will find it heartening to see this young man so well integrated into all aspects of community life. The positive tone, the photos of successful adults with Josh's condition, and a letter explaining dwarfism from the president of Little People of America show that, no matter what, the message "never sell yourself short" is for all of us.

Pamela K. Bomboy, Chesterfield County Public Schools, VA

Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 3-6. The book's title is a play on words. This photo-essay gives readers a look into the life of 14-year-old Josh, who is a dwarf. The color photos capture everyday moments that have a twist: Josh shops for clothes but has to have almost everything cut down; he goes grocery shopping but needs someone to pull things from high shelves. He may never reach five feet, but his dreams and aspirations are similar to those of many his age. He just has to find different ways to achieve his goals. For instance, basketball is his passion, but since he's too short to play, he manages the team. Josh sometimes sounds too good to be true, and his story begins rather strangely, with his saying he likes a good night's sleep, then referring to the trouble he has breathing at night. Otherwise, this is smoothly written and interesting, with appended informational pages about dwarfism and the nonprofit organization Little People of America providing additional substance. Ilene Cooper
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company (January 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0807555630
• ISBN-13: 978-0807555637
• Product Dimensions: 10.3 x 8.3 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,461,200 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An inspiration!!, October 17, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Never Sell Yourself Short (Concept Books (Albert Whitman)) (Hardcover)

This is definitely a book you want to have in your home if you have children of any ages. And definitely a must for every classroom. The book addresses the everyday issues faced by short statured people, through the eyes of a very unique, intelligent and well rounded young man. A young man, like countless other short statured people in the world, that have not let their height hold them back. This dynamic young man obviously has a shining future ahead of himself. Hopefully this book, and Joshua's message will open people eyes, and educate them. I have 4 children, and they love this book, becuase Joshua is our friend and we love him, and we have seen him face his challenges throughout his life, and triumph!. When you read this uplifting book, you will understand why

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Short People, August 16, 2007

By 

Mrs. Ann C. Uhlmann (Australia) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Never Sell Yourself Short (Concept Books (Albert Whitman)) (Hardcover)

This book is a lovely bookshelf book for the rellies and friends of people with dwarfism in the family. Its easy reading for the siblings/cousins/neighbors children, etc., and gives them a simple explanation of the problems short people need to overcome, but also gives shows the determination of people with any kind of handicap, to overcome and never feel less than their fellowman.