Life for each of us is filled with challenges and differences; and the reality is that each of us is more alike than different.
Our family consists of a dad, a mom, a neuro-typical adult son (his wife and 3 month old son), a 15 year old son who lives with Bipolar Disorder, an almost 13 year old son who lives with Autism (Asperger's), a 12 year old son who lives with Cerebral Palsy, and one ridiculously spoiled dog who has allergies and sheds a lot.
Our family practices acceptance and appreciation of the unique gifts every person has to offer.
When given the opportunity to receive a complimentary copy of Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete's book, My Brother Charlie, I did not hesitate to accept. Ms. Peete's advocacy on behalf of autism, as well as tolerance for differences with which many children live, is well-documented. I knew this book would be the real deal.
It did not disappoint.
In a simple, loving story Holly and Ryan have conveyed the message that human differences exist. Above all they have lovingly expressed our sameness and "how every one of us can find value in the uniqueness of people".In this joyful story, told from a sister's point of view, we meet a family whose oldest son teaches them important lessons about togetherness, hope, tolerance, and love.Callie is very proud of her brother, Charlie. He's good at so many things -- swimming, playing the piano, running fast. And Charlie has a special way with animals, especially their dog, Harriett.
But sometimes Charlie gets very quiet.
His words get locked inside him, and he seems far away.
A perfect compliment to the story is Shane W. Evans' illustrations. Each picture is simple yet vibrant, filled with life and love. I appreciate the illustrations because I know that Mac, my son who lives with Asperger's, thinks in pictures as do other children with autism. Though my son is older than the target audience of My Brother Charlie, as he read the book it was evident that he saw himself in the character of Charlie.
Regardless of whether or not you are parenting a child who lives with autism or any special need, every family with young children should read My Brother Charlie. Actually, I think everyone should read it.“My Brother Charlie is a book about how special all children are, and how every one of us can find value in the uniqueness of people.
Mainly, this is a book about hope and love.”
-Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete
♡
In recognition of Autism Awareness Month (April), three copies of My Brother Charlie will be given away - one copy autographed by the authors. The first comment number chosen will receive the signed copy with the second and third comment numbers chosen each receiving one of the remaining two books.
To be entered for a chance to win:
Simply leave one comment on this post to be entered in the random drawing. No purchase or further action is necessary to enter. Comments will close at 12:00AM EST on Tuesday, May 4, 2010. Winners will be published on that date here at Slurping Life. Winners will be chosen via random.org.
If you should win and would like to be contacted directly by me, please leave a valid email address (comment form allows for this and your email is not published). In the event a winner does not contact me within five days of the announcement of winners, an alternate winner will be chosen.
*The book is available for purchase from Scholastic.
