Children learn, play, think, and even read differently. It’s important for every child to see themselves in the pages of book and to also see the experiences of other children who learn, play, think, and read differently than they do. This can look like picture book nonfiction about the accomplishments of deaf men who helped NASA land on the moon or a hilarious middle grade novel about a young wheelchair user who loves magic. Disability representation encourages all of us to think about the ways we can make our world and the lives of everyone around us more accessible. With that in mind, here are some books with disability representation to share with your young readers of all ages!
Explore the history of the moon landing through this true story of eleven deaf men who helped NASA and America win the space race! Informed by direct correspondence with actual members of the Gallaudet Eleven, Kerry O’Malley Cerra launches this important story into the spotlight. With NASA’s Artemis campaign having put people on the moon’s surface once again, there is no better time to learn more about this exciting behind-the-scenes look at the work leading up to the first ever moon landing.
This accessible, funny, and groundbreaking story addresses the questions children often ask, as well as a disabled child’s choice not to answer. Based on the author’s real childhood experiences, this honest and authentic picture book is an empowering read for anyone with a disability, and for young readers learning how best to address differences.
From author and disabled parent Lucy Catchpole, this gentle and accessible picture book celebrates a wonderful part of one child’s life: her mother’s wheelchair. Mama’s wheelchair can take you on adventures, big and small. Even going to the kitchen for breakfast might become an exciting expedition. But the very best part about the Mama Car is…it has Mama! And she’s always there when you need her.
In this fresh, funny, and fast-paced story, chaos ensues when the kids at a down-on-its-luck middle school come to believe that fake magic is the real deal! This imaginative novel shines a spotlight on the way the school system often fails students with disabilities—while showcasing the power of those very students to make positive change.
A heartfelt novel about a neurodivergent thirteen-year-old navigating changing friendships, a school trip, and expanding horizons for fans of Rain Reign and Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World. Making new friends and letting go of old ones is never easy, but Ellen might just find a comfortable new place for herself if she can learn to embrace the fact that life doesn’t always stick to a planned itinerary.
