Grade 3-6-- A book about four families in which at least one parent is physically challenged. Lisa's father is blind, but her family bikes together and goes for walks. Adam's father, a lawyer and advocate of rights for the handicapped, is wheelchair-bound. Stephanie and Matthew's parents are dwarfs. Angela's parents are both deaf. All four of these brief pictorial essays are upbeat, but still express the difficulties disabled people encounter. In general, they give a good picture, demonstrating that a fulfilling life can be had no matter the type of handicap, with family support and some special equipment. While the book does not go into depth about such equipment, it does mention aids for the blind and the special needs of people in wheelchairs. The black-and-white photographs mainly depict family togetherness, except in the case of Adam's chapter, which shows his father getting into a car and discusses the ramps needed. A good addition to most collections. --Margaret C. Howell, West Springfield Elementary School, VA
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Kirkus Reviews
Imagine having a parent who is deaf, blind, mobility impaired, or an achondroplastic dwarf. Physically challenged adults and their families share their experiences in these brief chapters, providing surprisingly detailed information on the origin of their disabilities, everyday routines, and special adaptive equipment like the Braille stylus, cars outfitted with hand controls, and captioned TV. While family members do express their frustrations, the overall tone here is upbeat and positive. As sixth grader Lisa Kavanaugh comments about life with her blind father, ``People always say, aren't we wonderful when we go shopping, ride bicycles, and hurry through crowds. They don't realize we're just living.'' Frequent quotes and many b&w photos capture the flavor of each family. An excellent introduction to what it means to live with someone who is physically challenged. (Nonfiction. 8-12) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
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