I'm Here

by Peter H. Reynolds

Summary: In a crowded park, a boy makes an airplane out of a piece of paper carried to him by a gentle breeze, sends it on its way, and watches a new friend bring it back to him.

This story is of mediocre value. It is about autism, but that is not entirely clear. I would not use this book to discuss acceptance of students with autism. However, this book may be useful to discuss friendship and how to interact with peers to a child with autism who struggles with social situations.

Interest Level: grades k-3
Reading Level: grade 2

The Pirate of Kindergarten

The Pirate of Kindergarten

by George Ella Lyon

Summary: Ginny's eyes play tricks on her, making her see everything double, but when she goes to vision screening at school and discovers that not everyone sees this way, she learns that her double vision can be cured.

This story won the prestigious American Library Association (ALA) Schneider Family Book Award for books that embody an artistic expression of the disability experience in the ages 0 to 10 category. This book is presented in an entertaining manner, although its subject is serious. This is a stupendous book to read aloud for celebrating differences, discussing disabilities or discussing teasing.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 2

Just Because

by Rebecca Elliott

Summary: A younger brother describes all the fun he has with the big sister he loves so much—just because— in this heartwarming picture book about being perfectly loved, no matter what.

This is a very heart-warming story. I really appreciate this book because I was a special education teacher. The book challenges children who ask, “Why are they different?” to consider “why do I like certain things?” The younger brother’s reason to why his sister is different and why he loves her is “just because.” I love the message of this story and recommend it to parents and educators of children who are curious about disabilities. I also recommend it for class discussions on disabilities, especially when a new student has a disability.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 2

The Right Dog for the Job

The Right Dog for the Job:
Ira's Path from Service Dog to Guide Dog
by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

Summary: Tells how a golden retriever is trained as a service dog, to help someone who has trouble moving their arms or legs, and later as a guide dog for a man who cannot see.

This nonfiction story is an excellent read for discussing guide dogs. Though lengthy, this book is appropriate for discussing with a child what a service dog is or what a child can expect if their family is going to temporarily foster a service dog. It is also an excellent read for older, independent readers, especially those who love dogs.

Interest Level: grades k-3, grades 4-6
Reading Level: grade 6