How to be Disabled and Proud (or at least kinda sorta okay with it…)

In this non- fiction guide written by an author with Acondraplasia or Dwarfism, Cathy Reay writes the book that her younger self would have benefited from. Reay’s talent as a writer is that she manages to help the young reader who probably identifies as disabled, to navigate some very complex topics such as managing bullies, navigating medical appointments and self-advocacy with precision and humour. She is one of the first writers I have read who has succeeded in explaining the difference between the medical and social models of disability, in a clear and concise manner.

Reay also explores two topics I have rarely seen mentioned. The management of menstrual periods when you have personal care needs, and the phenomenon of disassociation from your body during the procedure. The fact that these are highlighted will be extremely comforting and affirming to teens and pre-teens with disabilities. This book should be in every secondary school library.