A is for Ability: An alphabet with a difference, because
we are all different, (Lothian Children’s Books) Sarah
Rose with Alley Pascoe & Beck Feiner PB HB RRP $24.99 9780734423023
Reviewed by Karen
Hendriks
Sarah Rose is a
three-time Paralympian swimmer, medal-winner, and disability advocate.
I was born with
dwarfism and I’m proud to be a little person. It’s okay to say ‘dwarf’, ‘little
person,’ and person of ‘short stature,’ but it is most respectful to use
people’s names. You can call me Sarah, Sar or legend!
Alley Pascoe is a
journalist, editor, and co-writer. She is the former Features Editor of Marie
Claire magazine and has written for the Australian Women’s Weekly, Gourmet
Traveller, Qantas magazine, Stellar, Body+Soul, Primer and Women’s Agenda.
Beck Feiner is an
illustrator, designer, and author whose illustrations shine a spotlight on
social issues. Her creative style has evolved from her graphic design and art
director experience in the advertising industry. Her first book Aussie
Legends Alphabet has received nation-wide recognition.
Sarah Rose and Alley
Pascoe have created a big-hearted guide to disability with a touch of humour.
The text gives insight into life for people with disabilities and the
difficulties they encounter. The use of the alphabet is a brilliant way to
learn about disability. The information is shared in a reader friendly voice. We
can change the style of jeans we wear, but we can’t change the genes we are
born with. Genetic disorders – such as cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease
and Downs Syndrome – are health conditions caused by a difference in someone’s
DNA. Questioning is used to spark curiosity, which is followed by the facts
that give an understanding. Did you know the human brain can generate enough
power to run a lightbulb? Because Sarah has a disability, this book is both
authentic and real. Creating understanding leads to more inclusivity and this
book is a wonderful tool to use.
Beck Feiner has her
own unique and recognisable award-winning illustration style. Her use of bright
bold coloured artwork is eye-catching.. She has cleverly included the Auslan
sign for each letter of the alphabet. Children love learning how to sign and
this adds another layer of depth to the book. Bright blues, pinks, yellows,
oranges, greens and blues sing out at you. The endpapers are joyful with
butterflies, rainbows, hearts, stars, bubbles, watermelon, music notes,
flowers, balloon dogs, bubbles, and triangles. The cover is bright and
captivating. Each spread is full of detail and is a celebration of disability.
ABC Disability is a picture book that would
make a perfect addition to any classroom. It is an interesting way to learn
about disabilities or conditions. This thoughtful, informative book is suitable
for 5- 9 years and is an ideal book for school libraries.