National Storytelling Week
National Storytelling Week is a chance to promote and encourage storytelling and takes place from the 30 January - 6 February, 2022.
To celebrate we’re sharing some of our favourite storybooks featuring children with disabilities or that touch on life as a parent or carer of someone with a disability…
A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll
A Kind of Spark tells the story of 11-year-old Addie as she campaigns for a memorial in memory of the witch trials that took place in her Scottish hometown. Addie’s story was born from Elle’s own experiences of neurodiversity and her commitment to seeing greater representation in children’s books.
Charlie Fry Series by Martin Smith
Charlie Fry is football mad. He sleeps wearing his team’s full kit and dreams of scoring the winning goal in an FA Cup final.
He plays football around the clock – at the park, on the way to school, at lunchtimes and even in his bedroom until his mum tells him off. But Charlie has a problem, he can’t run very far. He has plenty of skill but his poorly lungs caused by Cystic Fibrosis stop him from sprinting.
The Little Book of Broccoli by Annie Woods
This is an authentic and powerful glimpse into how Annie’s life has been enriched. She shares some of her journey and personal experiences (some light-hearted, some good, some not so) of living with and loving an extra-ordindary broccoli loving child, who happens to have Cornelia de Lange Syndrome
I Love You Natty: A Sibling's Introduction to Down's Syndrome by Mia Goleniowska
Big sister Mia, 9, writes lovingly about life with Natty, who has Down's syndrome. In this inspirational introduction aimed at children, she shows that we are all more alike than we realise. New parents will benefit too, as they share this beautifully illustrated book, complete with family photos. A must-read for families welcoming a new baby with Trisomy 21.
All About Diversity by Felicity Brooks
This dynamic and joyous exploration of difference helps young children learn to respond in a kind and equal way to everyone, regardless of shape, size, age, physical and mental ability, gender, ethnicity, beliefs, language, culture, background, and so on. With topics ranging from clothes and food to homes, festivals and families, there is plenty for children to talk about as they find out about what makes people different and what makes them unique.
The Skies I’m Under by Rachel Wright
Rachel describe her book as “A raw and honest account of becoming the parent of a child with complex disabilities. It’s like an intricate tattoo of my heart on my sleeve sharing the often hidden world of parenting a child with complex needs.”
Scope also has published storybooks featuring disabled children. They're no longer available as printed books, but you can download pdf versions here.
We love recommendations! If there are any fantastic books or resources on life with a disability that you think we should read make sure to tag us @helloaergo on the socials or email us hello@aergo.co.uk - we’d love to hear from you!
