Information, Resources, etc.

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Dear Friend of ASO:

Information, resources, events of interest that may be of interest. FYI - please share. Details follow my signature.

- Information on Project MORE - Structured Reading Mentoring Project for Children with Disabilities

- First Signs Training, Columbus (sponsored in part by ASO)

- New Book Available from AAPC

- National Autism Association - NATIONAL AUTISM CONFERENCE, Atlanta, GA

- First Annual Network of Autism Training and Technical Assistance Programs (NATTAP) Conference, Columbus, OH

- Newsweek Article Reports on New IQ Test for Children With Autism- USGA Resource Center - Golf and disabilities

- New Book Describes How Parents Treated Their Son's Autistic Symptoms

- Upcoming events of the TriCounty (Youngstown) ASA Chapter

- "Asperger Syndrome and Behavior Solutions for Autism" - Detroit, MI - The Autism Spectrum: Social Skills, and Students with Asperger Syndrome - Cleveland, OH

- Behavioral Disorders in Children & Adults with Developmental Disabilities: ADD/ADHD & Autism, Online resource- Recommended books and documentaries about the disability experience

Have you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase yours, visit www.oplates.com and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit our website at www.autismohio.org for more information. Part of the proceeds of plates purchased in the next three months will benefit your local ASA chapter!Sincerely,Barbara C. YavorcikPresidentAutism Society of Ohio701 S. Main St.Akron, OH 44311(330) 376-0211fax: (330) 376-1226email: askASO@...home: byavorcik@...web: www.autismohio.org Please note: This is provided for information purposes only. The ASO does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should not be construed as an endorsement by the ASO, either explicit or impiled.

Information on Project MORE - Structured Reading Mentoring Project for Children with Disabilities

This program has excellent results for students with disabilities - including autism. You may want to take advantage of this free opportunity.

Date: August 17, 2007

Elementary Principals

From: Jan Osborn, Amy Freeman

Project MORE: Mentoring in Ohio for Reading Excellence

Putnam County Educational Service Center

Re: Structured Reading Mentoring Project for Children with Disabilities

Project MORE, Mentoring in Ohio for Reading Excellence, is an Ohio created and funded structured reading mentoring program designed to improve reading for children with disabilities. Project MORE meets the criteria of a scientifically based reading research (SBRR) program.

Independent data collected by Bowling Green State University over the past seven years has demonstrated that, following these conditions of30 minutes of 1:1 mentoring, 4/week, for 32 weeks/year, children with specific learning disabilities make month for month reading gains.

The goal of Project MORE is to offer reading mentoring programs for children with disabilities that are effective, affordable, replicable and sustainable. We want to introduce new schools to the value of Project MORE and provide schools the opportunity to take ownership of the project after two years.

Project MORE has funding to help 40 new schools implement the first two years of their reading mentoring program for children with disabilities. This is in addition to supporting the 70+ schools around Ohio that currently use Project MORE.

If your school has both the interest and capacity to meet Project MORE’s criteria of 1:1 mentoring, 4/week for six children with disabilities (individual program) or 15 children with disabilities (whole school program), please by contact Amy Freeman, Project MORE Director @ 419/523-5951, email afreeman@... by August 31st. All new schools will receive a master copy of the reading mentoring materials as well as implementation training and follow-up professional development support.

For more information or for a list of Project MORE schools in your area, please contact Amy Freeman, Project MORE Director @ 419/523-5951, email afreeman@... or visit http://ohioprojectmore.org

First Signs Training, Columbus

Sponsored in part by the Autism Society of Ohio

Wednesday, October 3, 20079:00 AM - 1:00 PMQuest Conference Centers#12 Columbus Room8405 Pulsar PlaceColumbus, OH

For Complete details visit:

http://www.firstsigns.org/emails/10-03-07/OH/conference.htm

New Book Available from AAPC

With Open Arms: Creating School Communities of Support for Kids with Social Challenges Using Circle of Friends, Extracurricular Activities, and Learning Teams by Schlieder, M.S.

With Open Arms: Creating School Communities of Support for Socially Challenged Kids provides practical, easy-to-use techniques for even the busiest school personnel. Using familiar case studies in an easy-to-read format, this manual provides step-by-step instructions for how to implement Circles of Friends, participation in extracurricular activities, and professional Learning Teams to create both accepting peers and staff. Written by a teacher “in the trenches,†the book includes reproducible worksheets, Learning Team and Book Club study guides, Circle meeting forms and activities, charts, and checklists … everything you need to create your own supportive community for the kids you care about.

For complete details on this book, or to order, visit: http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9994.htm

National Autism Association - NATIONAL AUTISM CONFERENCEAtlanta, GA –The National Autism Association (NAA), has chosen Atlanta as the hosting city for the 2007 National Autism Conference. The comprehensive three-day conference is scheduled for November 8 through 11 at the Hyatt Regency.Child advocates Deirdre Imus and will deliver the keynote addresses. Imus is a national leader on children’s health and the environmentfounder and president of the Deirdre Imus Environmental Center for Pediatric Oncology®and co-founder and co-director with husband Don Imus of The Imus CattleRanch for Kids with Cancer. is the mother of two boysMattiasage threeand five-year-old Christian. Christian regressed into autism at two-and-a-half years. Making appearances on such shows as Oprah has been instrumental in promoting positive change in the areas of autism research and treatment.The conference will also feature the world’s most renowned experts who will share their knowledge and expertise with parents and practitioners on topics in cutting-edge environmental researchdietary and behavioral interventionslegal and legislative strategiesestate planningpotty-trainingautism safetymarital supportand more.Speakers include Dr. WakefieldDr. Jeff BradstreetDr. Arthur KrigsmanDr. Gutsteinjournalist Dan OlmstedNew York Times best-seller author KirbyIEP specialist Lynne Arnold and many others.NAA is the leading organization for breaking through the myths of autism as a mysterious and incurable disorder. Recognizing that the future of those with an autism diagnosis can no longer rely on raising awareness alone NAA is committed to empowering parents and caregivers with the most up-to-date resources available to enable all affected individuals to reach their full potential.For more information on the National Autism Conferenceits presentersspeakersand eventsor to registerplease visit www.nationalautismconference.org. Early discounted registration is available until September 1st

For complete information, visit http://www.nationalautismconference.org/

First Annual Network of Autism Training and Technical Assistance Programs (NATTAP) ConferenceGreater Columbus Convention CenterSeptember 26-28, 2007 in Columbus, Ohio

Registration is now open: www.ocali.org/nattap2007$250 - now through August 17th$300 - August 18th through September 10th$315 - September 11th through September 28thThis conference will review current systems for training and technical assistance as well as best practices in research and intervention use for students with autism spectrum disorders

Conference Attendees Will Include:*State Leaders*Regional and District Administrators*Superintendents*School Principals*General and Special Educators*Service Providers*Paraprofessionals*Families

Experience a variety of of sessions presented by over 200 key leaders and scholars in ASD and related fields*Identify supports, strategies and services that your child needs for success*Increase collaboration in your school and district*Network with other professionals from across the nation*Participate in the initial release of the National Teacher Competencies*Gain knowledge about state-wide initiatives such as:-Response to Intervention-Alternate Assessment-Identification-IEP Development-Highly Qualified Teachers-Transition Issues

Hear sessions by these leaders in the field:*Judy Coucouvanis*Glen Dunlap*BJ Freeman* Gerhard* Pratt*Barry Prizant*Kathleen Quill* Myles*Diane Twachtman-Cullen*Pamela Wolfbergplus over 200 others...

For more information or to register today visit the conference website: www.ocali.org/nattap2007

Exhibit Space is Still Available. To Find Out How Your Organization Can Reserve a Space, Contact Simon at: exhibit@...

Newsweek Article Reports on New IQ Test for Children With AutismScientists at Riviere-des-Praires Hospital in Montreal have implemented a new IQ test for children with autism that provides a more accurate indicator of intelligence. The test requires no social interaction, unlike the standard IQ test that requires participants to listen and respond to numerous questions, which can be torture for most people with autism. It's no surprise that with the standardtest, three-quarters of people with autism are classified as havingbelow-normal intelligence, with many deemed mentally retarded.For the study, children took two IQ tests, the standardWechsler'where they arranged and completed pictures, did simplearithmetic, demonstrated vocabulary comprehension and answeredquestions and the Raven's Progressive Matrices. With theRaven's test, they got brief instructions, then worked on theirown to analyze three-by-three arrays of geometric designs, with onemissing, and choose the design that belonged in the empty place. Thedisparity in scores was striking; overall, participants scored aroundthe 30th percentile on the Wechsler, which corresponds to lowaverage IQ, but averaged in the 56th percentile on theRaven's.These results show that children with autism have intelligence thatdoes not manifest itself on a standard IQ test. The challenge is tocoax that hidden intellectual spark into the kind of intelligence thatmanifests itself in practice. To read the full article, go to:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20226463/site/newsweek/

USGA Resource Center - Golf and disabilities

The USGA Resource Center website is a clearinghouse of information forindividuals with disabilities to research information regardingopportunities in the game of golf. Specifically, the website containsfive databases with contact information for instructors, courses,therapists, programs and tournaments involving individuals withdisabilities. The Resource Center has also developed and disseminatesa brochure titled "I Play" which is given out atall 13 USGA championships; A Modification to the Rules of Golf forGolfers with Disabilities; and information on spectator assistance atUSGA championships. The USGA has given away over $14 million since1997 to accessible golf facilities and programs for individuals withdisabilities, including the Bergenfield Public School District, TheARC of Atlantic County and the National Amputee Golf Association, justto name a few. The next grant application deadline is October 5th,2007.Visit the USGA Resource Center at http://www.resourcecenter.usga.org/

For questions regarding grant applications, please contact Brockman at 719-471-4810, ext. 29.

New Book Describes How Parents Treated Their Son's Autistic SymptomsDylan's Story is the account of the Fergus family's struggle tohelp their son improve despite misleading doctors, ineffectivetreatments and a dwindling bank account. As the Fergus's lookedbeyond the 'neurological'; diagnosis given to their son,they began to understand how environmental triggers and toxicexposures were playing a leading role in Dylan's autism. Withthe elimination of common food allergens, additives and chemicalexposures, the family began to watch their son strengthen, heal andultimately lose his autistic tendencies.Dylan's Story contains extensive research on the contributing factorsthat impaired Dylan's health. It also contains a resource guidethat lists common sources of chemicals and nutritionally void foodsand their impact on proper body and brain function. In addition, itincludes recipes that Cristin Fergus, CNC, developed for Dylan, whichhelped him eliminate toxins and common allergens from his diet.To order this book, cut and paste this link into your browser:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=hivRibraiMTOQh4-_-FJsw..

Upcoming events of the TriCounty (Youngstown) ASA Chapter

KennywoodSeptember 8, 2007$20/person if we get at least 20 people to go. Tri County Members $10.Please RSVP by Aug 31 to Dennis Houghton at (330)482-3954 ordennishougthon@...If you plan on attending Sept 19, 2007Regular MeetingTime: 7:00 p.m.Social: 8:30ITAM Club115 S. Meridian Rd.Youngstown, OH

"Asperger Syndrome and Behavior Solutions for Autism"Detroit, MI - OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 1, 2007Asperger Syndrome: Beyond the Basics, with Bolick, Ph.D.October 31, 2007

Children and adolescents with Asperger Syndrome (AS) can intrigue and confound us- often simultaneously. Designed for participants with a basic knowledge of AS, this workshop will present a framework that allows us to build upon strengths in order to minimize challenges in the real world. Participants will learn accommodations, modifications, and direct teaching strategies that optimize availability for learning and enhance social cognition, communication, and emotional competence. The workshopwill emphasize practical strategies that can be used across school, home, and community settings.Behavior Solutions, with Wheeler, M.Ed.November 1

Increase understanding of the characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) that impact behavior and can foster communication breakdowns and feelings of being overwhelmed. Learn how to address both the social and sensory needs of an individual. Topics will include: effective behavior interventions, visual supports for maximizing communication and minimizing confusion, and preventing and dealing with shutdowns and meltdowns. This presentation is appropriate for educators, therapists, caregivers and parents of children/teens with ASD.Doubletree Hotel Dearborn5801 Southfield Expressway Detroit, MI 48228(313) 336-3340

http://www.spectrumtrainingsystemsinc.com/detroit.html

The Autism Spectrum: Social Skills,and Students with Asperger SyndromeCleveland, OH November 15 - 16, 2007November 15"Social Skills Training and Frustration Management"Jed Baker, Ph.D. Specific, user-friendly strategies and techniques for providing relevant social skills instruction to children and teens with ASD will be shared at this workshop. Enjoyable socialization methods are emphasized so individuals may experience success and desire to build skills. Social deficits affect life at home, school and eventually in the workplace. Conference participants will learn both highly beneficial strategies that can be used across a variety of settings and routines; and practical and effective solutions to assist 'typical' peers, family members and professionals to become more understanding, accepting and engaging of those with social difficulties.November 16"Strategies for Students with Asperger Syndrome"Diane Adreon, Ph.D. This workshop will focus on specific strategies to increase the likelihood of providing a successful experience for students with Asperger Syndrome (AS) in school. Workshop participants will (a) gain an understanding of the challenges of students with AS in the school setting; ( learn specific strategies to reduce the likelihood of problematic behavior by pro-actively engineering a supportive environment, and © learn practical strategies to address common academic, social, organizational, and behavioral issues. Location: Holiday Inn Westlake / Cleveland West1100 Crocker Rd.Westlake, OH 44145(440) 871-6000

http://www.spectrumtrainingsystemsinc.com/cleveland.html

Behavioral Disorders in Children & Adults with Developmental Disabilities: ADD/ADHD & Autism

EP LiveOnline - a joint venture of Exceptional Parent Magazine and Vemics, Inc. is proud to announce a new series of interactive online seminars specifically for Military Medical Personnel, Civilian Health Care Professionals, Families and Caregivers.

This FREE 4 part series, entitled "Behavioral Disorders Commonly Encountered in Children and Adults with Developmental Disabilities: ADD/ADHD and Autism" begins on September 12th, 2007 at 7pm.

CME Category 1 Accreditation for physicians only: Provided at no cost to participants who qualify. Click here for to register:

http://www.epliveonline.org/military-prglist.html

Or for more information about this program, please enjoy this video postcard from Joe Valenzano. Turn up your speakers and click here to listen:

http://tinyurl. com/2d25jd

EPLiveOnline - Archive Events

http://www.vemics. com/eplo2/ eplive-archive3. html

Recommended books and documentaries about the disability experience

List compiled by: Weiss, Co-director, The National Leadership Consortium on Developmental Disabilities, and Fong, Graduate Assistant, Center for Disabilities Studies

Please send suggestions for additional books to include or comments to: nweiss@...

The original intention of this list was to provide students in a disabilities studies class a selection of books that could provide an “insider’s view†of a disability experience from various perspectives. Many people graciously contributed suggestions of books that have illuminated the disability experience for them or books that have reflected their own experiences. While the original intention was to focus on memoir-style books, it soon became evident that there were fictional accounts that also provided insight into the range of disability experiences and as well, people suggested books of essays, non-fiction books, children’s books, films, and books of poetry. I have attempted to group these and include all recommendations.

This list is divided into the following sections: The first section, Books about the Disability Experience, Memoirs and Families’ Stories, includes books written by people with disabilities or by family members. They are memoir-style accounts that convey the experience of disability through first person accounts. The second section includes Fiction and Poetry. Many of the books in this section provide insight into the lives of people with disabilities and families that is as rich as that provided through the first-person accounts. The third section, Non-fiction and Collections of Essays on the Disability Experience includes collections of writings by people with disabilities and books about, but not by people with disabilities and families. Following this list are a few Children’s Books that were recommended and a list of Films.

Several of the suggested books are from the Disability Studies: Information and Resources List edited and compiled by , Shoultz, and (2003), with contributions from Jagdish Chander, Beth Ferri, Perri , Lori Lewin, Schwartz, Zach Rosetti, White, and Zubal-Ruggieri, for the National Resource Center on Supported Living and Choice, Center on Human Policy, School of Education, Syracuse University. Unless otherwise noted, the list of films and their synopses are from the Disabilities Studies list (, Shoultz, and , 2003), as well. For more information on the Syracuse University Disability Studies list, please visit: http://thechp.syr.edu/Disability_Studies_2003_current.doc. For additional lists of film documentaries, including major motion pictures, two sources are: the UC Berkeley Media Resources Center lists about the disability experience (http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/MRC/disability.html) and Films Involving Disabilities (http://www.caravan.demon.co.uk).

This list is not – and may never be – fully complete. If you have favorite books that you think should be included, please forward us information about the book to nweiss@.... It will be helpful if you are able to provide as complete reference information as possible. This list includes months (if not years) of good reads ... we hope you will enjoy exploring these books and gaining a more personal understanding of people's many different disability experiences.

Books about the Disability Experience, Memoirs and Families’ Stories

Barron, J., & Barron, S. (1992). There’s a boy in here. New York: Simon & Schuster.

There’s A Boy In Here tells two stories: that of the mother of a child with autism, and that of the child. Barron describes in great detail her son ’s difficult behaviors and his seeming indifference to his family, as well as her own efforts to simultaneously understand his behaviors and help him diminish them. then retells some of these accounts with his own memories of these events. He emphasizes how these behaviors were not only pleasurable for him, but were an attempt to control his environment and lessen the possibilities of failure. Except for nine months he spent in a residential school, was fully included in general and provides a detailed perspective of his classroom experiences. While the account provides the perspectives of both the parent and the person with autism, unfortunately, the narrative ultimately reinforces the idea that autism is something to be cured or overcome (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University).

Bauby, J. (1997). The diving bell and the butterfly. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.

On December 8 1995, Elle magazine editor-in-chief Bauby suffered a stroke and lapsed into a coma. He awoke 20 days later, aware of his surroundings but physically paralyzed with the exception of some movement in his head and left eye. Bauby had Locked-in-Syndrome, a rare condition caused by stroke damage to the brain stem. Eye movements and blinking a code representing letters of the alphabet became his sole means of communication. It is also how he dictated this warm, sad, and extraordinary memoir. Bauby's thoughts on the illness, the hospital, family, friends, career, and life before and after the stroke appear with considerable humor and humanity. Actor Rene Auberjonois's narration adds to the poignancy of the story. Sadly, Bauby died of his condition in 1997 (Source: L. Hupp, Univ. of Pittsburgh at stown Lib., Library Journal, Amazon.com).

Beck, M. (2000). Expecting Adam: A true story of birth, rebirth, and everyday magic (Reissue

ed.). New York: Berkley.

Expecting Adam is an autobiographical tale of an academically-oriented Harvard couple who conceive a baby with Down's syndrome and decide to carry him to term. Despite everything Martha Beck and her husband know about themselves and their belief system, when Martha gets accidentally pregnant and the fetus is discovered to have Down's syndrome, the Becks find they cannot even consider abortion. The presence of the fetus that they each privately believe is a familiar being named Adam is too strong. As Martha's difficult pregnancy progresses, odd coincidences and paranormal experiences begin to occur for both Martha and , though for months they don't share them with each other. Martha's pregnancy and Adam become the catalyst for tremendous life changes for the Becks (Source: Excerpted from ka Lutz, Amazon.com). Recommended by Donna ez, Co-Vice President, National Coalition on Self Determination; and Sue Swenson, Executive Director, The Arc of the United States.

Bérubé, M. (1996). Life as we know it: A father, family, and an exceptional child. New

York: Vintage Books.

This remarkable book is a father's story of the life of his 4-year-old son , who has Down syndrome. It is far more than just a personal memoir of his son's birth and young life. In following the developmental stages, social experiences, and involvement with social services that passes through, Bérubé explores their social implications, including such topics as IQ testing, the politics of education, disability law, social services, health care, and entitlements. Implicit in these discussions are not just his own family's experiences in these realms, but also concepts such as social justice, what it means to be human, what kind of society is valued, and by what means we determine this value (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University).

Blackman, L. (1999). Lucy’s story: Autism and other adventures. Mt. Ommaney, Australia:

Book in Hand.

In her autobiography, Lucy Blackman gives a very detailed insider’s view of autism before and after she learned to communicate through typing. This book, as well as being a fascinating autobiographical narrative, is essential reading on the aspects of sensory discrimination, issues of visual perception, and discussion of the rituals associated with autism. Blackman also provides an in depth discussion of her school placements, what worked, what did not work in her school settings, and how her family relationships bridged both her school and communication gaps. A majority of the book provides a comprehensive discussion of the method of facilitated communication. (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University).

Brown, C. (1998). My left foot. London: Vintage. (Original work published 1954).

My Left Foot tells of the childhood and adolescence of Christy Brown, the author. Though Brown is born with severe cerebral palsy, unable to communicate or control his movements, his mother believes that his mind is unaffected. Her confidence in Brown's growing abilities never falters as her son grows up and becomes increasingly aware of his physical disabilities (Source: BookRags.com).

Buck, P.S. (1992). The child who never grew. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House. (Originally, 1950).

This edition brings back into print a classic in disability literature. Written by a Nobel and Pulitzer prize- winning author, this personal account broke a national taboo when it was originally published in 1950. Buck’s inspiring account of her struggle to help and understand her daughter with intellectual disabilities was perhaps the first disclosure of its kind by a public figure. Today, much of the emotional experience Buck so eloquently describes still rings true. New material written especially for this edition amplifies her story and gives the book an important historical perspective (Source: WoodbineHouse.com). Recommended by Lawrence-Brown, Chair, Inclusive Graduate Programs, St. Bonaventure University; Deborah Safarik; and Sue Swenson, Executive Director, The Arc of the United States.

Brantlinger, E., Klein, S., & Guskin, S. (1994). Fighting for Darla: Challenges for family care

and professional responsibility: The case study of a pregnant adolescent with autism. New York: Teachers College Press.

From the authors’ foreword: “Often the professional literature implies that a consensus exists regarding meeting needs and delivering services to people with disabilities. On the contrary, our research has led us to the strong conviction that tentativeness, anxiety, and misgivings often surround the actions of those providing care and well as those who receive care. Darla reminds us that the real world is complicated and never easy; she forces us to struggle with our own sense of helplessness and despair when the real world does not live up to our expectations. Although she has not language that we can understand, Darla teaches us...." (Source: Excerpted from Ontario Adult Autism Research and Support Network Book Review, www.ont-autism.uoguelph.ca/). Recommended by Phil , Assistant Professor, Special Education, Eastern Michigan University.

Callahan, J. (1989). Don’t worry, he won’t get far on foot. New York: Vintage Books.

Equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and angering to the point of disbelief, this is Callahan’s story told in his own words and pictures. is a cartoonist whose work not only challenges but attacks and explodes social norms. He is also a quadriplegic and recovering alcoholic who has suffered through abusive support providers, endured battles with the welfare system, maintained his vicious sense of humor, and emerged from some difficult times happy, successful, and determined to change prevailing attitudes about disability, potential, normalcy, and employment. He shares his experiences and lessons learned in a straightforward way that does not allow pity or ego to enter the picture (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University).

Cohen, T. S. and Cohen, B. M. (2005). Disabled & Challenged: Reach for Your Dreams. WishingUwell Publishing.

These are the wise words of Terry Cohen, who from a very young age began learning to accept and conquer the challenges he faces with myotonic muscular dystrophy. Now, with his psychologist dad, Terry has written a book for young people who are facing life-long disabilities of all kinds - and for those who love and care for them as well. Terry shares his experiences and know-how for reaching a full life. He speaks frankly and in a language that children and young adults can easily understand and enjoy, peppering sage advice amid personal anecdotes to help others cope with the challenges ahead. (Amazon)

Crane, G.T. (2004). Aidan's way: The story of a boy's life and a father's journey. Naperville,

IL: Sourcebooks.

Sam Crane was unprepared to be the father of Aidan, a boy who would never walk, talk or see. Aidan’s Way is an endlessly inspiring account of parental love and devotion, of the lessons of ancient eastern philosophy and of what it means, ultimately, to be human (Source: SpecialNeeds.com). Recommended by Marks, Northern Arizona University.

Crimmins, C. (1991). Where is the mango princess? New York: Knopf.

Although it was frightening when Crimmins's husband, Alan, an attorney, suffered a traumatic brain injury while on a family vacation, it was his long-term rehabilitation that proved most daunting, for brain injuries can cause significant personality changes. This chronicle of Al's injury, treatment and rehabilitation shows how perplexing and stressful traumatic brain injury can be for both victim and family (Source: Excerpted from Kim Witherspoon, Publisher’s Weekly, Amazon.com).

De Vinck, C. (1988). The power of the powerless. New York: Doubleday.

De Vinck writes about his brother Oliver, who lives a life of profound disability, and shows how much Oliver means to him and to all he comes in contact with. Oliver "lay in the same bed for 33 years, unable to see, walk, communicate or feed himself." The book jacket says the book "is a doorway into the deep lessons of life, love, and faith de Vinck learned from his brother Oliver. It poignantly affirms the immeasurable worth of every person." The book has introductory and closing remarks by Henri Nouwen, Sargent Shriver and Fred (Mr.) . Recommendation and review by Coulter, M.D., Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.

Dorris, M. (1989). The broken cord. New York: Harper Perennial.

When Dorris, 26, single, working on his doctorate, and part Indian himself, applied to adopt an Indian child, his request was speedily granted. He knew that his new three-year-old son, Adam, was developmentally disabled; but he believed in the power of nurture and love. This is the heartrending story, full of compassion and rage, of how his son grew up with intellectual disabilities, a victim of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. The volume includes a short account of his own life by the 20-year-old Adam, and a foreword by Dorris's wife, the writer Louise Erdrich. The Broken Cord won a National Book Critics Circle Award in 1989 (Source: Amazon.com).

Dubus, A. (1998). Meditations from a movable chair: Essays. New York: Vintage.

His second essay collection, Meditations from a Movable Chair, is about the people who have meant the most to him. The book conjures a cloud of witnesses--Dubus's father, his sister, Norman Mailer, Liv Ullmann, a gay military officer--so vividly that their gifts to Dubus become gifts to the reader, as well. Many of these people helped Dubus understand the holiness, even sacramentality, of everyday life, which he describes in explicitly Catholic terms. Meditations from a Movable Chair is a rare and wonderful thing--a book written out of love, whose richness of heart is expressed by an exacting and challenging mind (Source: ph Gross, Amazon.com).

Fadiman, A. (1997). The spirit catches you and you fall down: A Hmong child, her

American doctors, and the collision of two cultures. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux.

Lia Lee was born in 1981 to a family of recent Hmong immigrants, and soon developed symptoms of epilepsy. By 1988 she was living at home but was brain dead after a tragic cycle of misunderstanding, overmedication, and culture clash: "What the doctors viewed as clinical efficiency the Hmong viewed as frosty arrogance." The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down is a tragedy of Shakespearean dimensions (Source: Center for Disabilities Studies, University of Delaware).

Featherstone, H. (1981). A difference in the family (2nd ed.). New York: Basic Books.

In this wise, compassionate account, Helen Featherstone, educator and mother of a severely disabled child, traces the long, often heartbreaking road toward complete acceptance of disability. Drawing on interviews with parents and professionals, published accounts, and her own personal experience, she discusses how parents and siblings cope with their feelings of fear, anger, guilt, and loneliness (Source: Publisher book description, Amazon.com). Recommended by Ruppmann, Associate Director, The Advocacy Institute; Sue Swenson, Executive Director; The Arc of the United States; and Lynne Tamor, Parent and Advocacy Coordinator, Association for Children's Mental Health.

Fries, K. (2007). The history of my shoes and the evolution of Darwin’s theory. New York: Carroll & Graf

In The History of My Shoes and the Evolution of Darwin’s Theory, Kenny Fries tells two stories: the development of the theory of “survival of the fittest," as articulated by Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace; and the history of his ever-changing, made-to-order, orthopedic shoes. The famously important first story, as told by Kenny Fries, is a condensed and colorful account of the race between Darwin and Wallace to formulate their groundbreaking theories. At the same time, Fries tells a deeply personal story of the evolving consciousness of his own "adaptations," represented by his shoes. Although only the “fittest†may survive, Fries learns that adaptation and variation are critical to survival. What is deemed normal, or even perfect, are passing phases of the ever-changing embodiment of nature in our world. In the end, Darwin and Wallace’s discoveries resonate with Fries' own story, inextricably leading us into a new world where variety and difference are not only “normal,†but the ingenious origins of survival itself. (press release).

Fries, K. (1997). Body, remember. New York: Plume.

In this memoir, Kenny Fries explores his life and experiences with his disability. Having been born with congenital deformities that affected the lower part of his body, Fries searches medical records, talks with family and friends, and examines past relationships in order to better understand his disability. In addition to an understanding of his physical body, Fries also explores his sexuality and personal relationships. This is a memoir about disability, but it is also about the discovery and understanding of his identity (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University).

Galli, R. (2000). Rescuing , Chapel Hill: Algonquin Books.

In one terrible instant, on July 4, 1998, the lives of the Galli family changed forever. Their 17-year-old son dove into a pool and broke his neck when his head hit the bottom. So begins the account of the next 10 days in 's life as told by his father. When the Gallis were informed that their son's fracture had resulted in quadriplegia, their world crumbled. As doctors, specialists, social workers, and clergy tried to explain the future that was facing, his parents started to consider another possibility. Perhaps life under those conditions was not the best choice for their son-maybe the best option for was death. This is an honest and heartrending account of a family facing a dire reality (Source: Excerpted from Carol DeAngelo, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA, School Library Journal). Gottlieb, D. (2006). Letters to Sam: A grandfather's lessons on love, loss, and the gifts of life. New York: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. In the tradition of such bestsellers as Tuesdays with Morrie, this is a powerful collection of love letters from a quadriplegic grandfather to his autistic grandson. Written by award-winning radio host and psychologist Gottlieb, it is sure to touch readers deeply. (Source: SpecialNeeds.com).

Grandin, T. (1995). Thinking in pictures: And other reports from my life. New York: Bantam.

Thinking In Pictures is about the childhood and development of Temple Grandin, a woman with autism. She likens herself to the robotic character, Data, on the television program, Star Trek: The Next Generation . She says words are like a second language to her, noting that she thinks primarily in images. Grandin, who holds a Ph.D. in animal science and has designed equipment that revolutionized the livestock industry, proposes that genius and autism may sometimes be closely related (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University). Recommended by Cerreto, , Boston University.

Grandin, T., & Scariano, Margaret M. (1986). Emergence: Labeled autistic. Novato, CA:

Arena Press.

Temple Grandin's groundbreaking book chronicles the remarkable and inspiring true story of how she overcame autism-with a new introduction. Temple Grandin was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. An intelligent child with a thirst for knowledge, but unable to properly express herself or control her behavior, Temple struggled through grade school. Eventually moved from a 'normal' school to an educational program for autistic children, she began to suffer 'nerve attacks.' Now Temple tells the story of how she went from a fear-gripped, autistic child to a successful professional and a world leader in her field. (Amazon.com). Recommended by Deb Einhorn, Director, Family Matters, Parent Training and Information Center and ARC Community Support System.

Grealy, L. (1994). Autobiography of a face. New York: Harper.

The narrative’s starting point of view is that of Grealy as a child, from her early diagnosis of cancer at age nine, replete with the singular distinction of being sick and not having to turn in a book report, through surgery that removed half of her jaw, almost three years of radiation and chemotherapy, to her growing awareness that she is experientially set apart from her family, her classmates, and her physicians. The book chronicles her hospital and school experiences as well as her internal struggle to eschew the mirrors that reflect difference, what she gradually realizes is, by society’s standards, her “ugliness†or to embrace the mirrors that reflect liberation from image and instead reflect the face of the self (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University).

Greenfeld, J. (1989). A child called Noah. (Reissued ed.). New York: Pocket Books.

The joy and hope with which Greenfeld recorded Noah's birth in his journal were not to last. By the age of two and a half, Noah had stopped talking, had difficulty performing the simplest tasks, and could not communicate with his parents. No matter what the label - autistic or severely retarded - Noah was a child who would grow old but would never grow up, and for whom no cure is available. The doctors consulted by the Greenfelds were as baffled as Noah's beleaguered parents. Vacillating between hope and despair, and increasingly aware of the impact caring for a child like Noah would have on their lives, the anguished Greenfeld family journeyed from New York to Connecticut to California in search of help. A Child Called Noah is an honest, harrowing, and profoundly human story (Source: Wyoming Parent Information Center, http://www.wpic.org/).

Hale, M.J.G., & Hale, Jr., C.M. (1999). I had no means to shout. Bloomington, IN: 1st Books.

Hale, a man with autism, discovered the communication technique of facilitated communication (FC) when he was 36 years old and this book chronicles his life before and after he began to use FC. The narrative provides, in ’ voice, a fascinating and detailed insiders’ perspective to what autism feels like, how ’ apraxia and dyspraxia have affected his life and his communication, and how FC allows not to emerge from autism, but rather, to express himself “as the intelligent, cognizant man he really is†(Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University). Recommended by Cornelia Moisuk, Parent.

Hall, M.L. (1998). Dazed and fatigued in the toxic 21st century (1998). Los Angeles:

Consafos.

In his senior year at UC Berkeley, author Mark Llewellyn Hall comes down with a mysterious illness. His quest for a cure forces him to completely transform his life, which ultimately becomes the key to his miraculous recovery. Written in a young, alternative voice that weaves powerful prose with original poetry, "Dazed and Fatigued in the Toxic 21st Century" reveals a remarkable story of determination and personal insight, that sheds new light on what it means to grow up and live in today's toxic age. (Source: Book Description, Amazon.com).

Harland, K. (2002). A will of his own: Reflections on parenting a child with autism. Bethesda,

MD: Woodbine House.

Reflecting on her life before and after motherhood, Harland finds that despite the pain and chaos of Will’s autism, her life’s horizon has stretched and grown. Her son’s disorder has pulled her in directions she never meant to go, but wouldn’t reverse for anything. A Will Of His Own should be enjoyed by other parents whose child has taken them into uncharted territory, as well as by readers who want to imagine what that journey entails. (Source: WoodbineHouse.com). Recommended by Deanna Pedicone, Center for Disabilities Studies, University of Delaware.

Hockenberry, J. (1995). Moving violations: War zones, wheelchairs, and declarations of

independence. New York: Hyperion.

Moving Violations is an honest and often humorous account of Hockenberry’s life as a man with a disability. He takes the reader on a journey in which he reflects upon the events in his life, from the accident that, at age 19, caused a spinal cord injury, to his work as a nationally renown broadcast journalist. He does not flinch at talking about the personal aspects of disability. And he shares the adventures of his career. Hockenberry also explains how his disability, rather than limiting him, is a window through which he frames his view of the world -- how it gives him insight that defines who he is and what he does (Source: Center on Human Policy, Syracuse University). Recommended by Maureen Keyes, Associate Professor, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.

Hyatt, G.W. (2006). I’ll Do It Myself. Surrey, B.C.: Soaring Eagle Communications.

The author, Glenda Hyatt has cerebral palsy. A lack of oxygen at birth meant she would not be able to walk, her hands would not function well and her speech would be almost impossible to understand. Her parents were advised to institutionalize her. Yet, Hyatt proved them wrong. Glenda was integrated into a regular classroom long before mainstreaming or inclusion were buzzwords. She went on to earn the highest award in Girl Guides and the Outstanding Junior Student Award. Soaring Eagle Communications, Suite 316, 13910 - 101st Avenue, Surrey, BC

s, M.B. (2006). Secret girl. New York: St. ’s Press.

Secret Girl is a memoir about a well-to-do Baltimore family that for decades guarded a secret they felt too ashamed to reveal, much less discuss among themselves. When Brucie s, the family’s eldest daughter, finds herself newly sober at the age of 38, she finally seeks out and comes face-to-face with this secret—a younger sister Anne who was diagnosed at birth with hydrocephalus and intellectual disabilities, then institutionalized. Anne has never been home to visit, and s has never seen her. This memoir goes beyond the story of simply one family; it sheds light upon the struggle for human connection that we all share, and upon the need to accept one’s limitations, as well as to learn forgiveness (Source: MollyBruces.com). Recommended by Steve Eidelman, Edelsohn Professor, Department of Individual and Family Studies, University of Delaware; and Liz Weintraub, Quality Enhancement Specialist, Council on Quality in Leadership.

Jezer, M. (1997). Stuttering: A life bound up in words. New York: Basic Books.

Despite his participation in several forms of treatment, Jezer did not achieve fluency. His memoir tells of his experiences with dysfluency but also of his successes and satisfactions in professional and personal life (Source: Ray D. Kent).

, H.M. (2006). Too late to die young: Nearly true tales from a life. New York:

Picador.

With a voice as disarmingly bold, funny, and unsentimental as its author, a thoroughly unconventional memoir that shatters the myth of the tragic disabled life. Harriet McBryde isn't sure, but she thinks one of her earliest memories was learning that she will die. By the time she realized she wasn't a dying child, she was living a grown-up life, intensely engaged with people, politics, work, struggle, and community. Due to a congenital neuromuscular disease, has never been able to walk, dress, or bathe without assistance. With help, however, she manages to take on the world. From the streets of Havana, where she covers an international disability rights conference, to the floor of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, she lives a life on her own terms. And along the way, she defies and debunks every popular assumption about disability (Amazon,com). Recommended by Fredda Brown, Professor, Special Education, Department of Educational and Community Programs, CUNY/Queens College, Division of Education.

, R., & , K. (1999). Lost in a desert world: The autobiography of Roland

. Wallace, CA: Massey-Reyner.

Forty or fifty years ago, when a child was born with a developmental the doctor would often counsel the parents to put their son or daughter away and forget about them. Roland 's mother and father did not take this advice. But in the 1950s in Philadelphia they had no one to help them and when the problems that Roland's disability presented began to overwhelm them, they had no choice but to resign themselves to that original advice. Roland spent half his childhood at Pennhurst State School outside Philadelphia, where he saw fellow residents abused and where he himself was abused but somehow he was able to keep his spirit alive. When he won his freedom as a young adult, he became president of Speaking for Ourselves and an internationally known speaker and leader in the self-advocacy movement (Amazon.com). Recommended by Ruthie Marie Beckwith, Director, Tennessee Microboards Assoc.; Donna ez, Co-Vice President, Nat’l. Coalition on Self Determination; Phil , Assist. Professor, Special Education, Eastern Michigan Univ.; and Liz Weintraub, Quality Enhancement Specialist, Council on Quality in Leadership.

Karasik, P., and Karasik, J. (2003). The ride together: A brother and sister’s memoir of Autism in

the family. New York: Washington Square.

In this remarkable book, the Karasiks present a sibling's viewpoint of growing up with autism. Alternating between Judy's memoir and 's comics, they chronicle the life of their brother, , from the 1950s to today. The authors recount the heartbreaks and joys of growing up with an autistic sibling and offer insights into the treatment of the condition at a time, when the medical and educational professions knew little about it and blamed parents (namely, "refrigerator moms"). Events such as 's recitations of whole TV shows and his slapping his head as a response to uncomfortable situations take on new meaning through the unique format. Judy formerly worked as a book editor, and is a professional cartoonist. Their book fills an important gap in the literature, complementing the parental view found in most autism narratives. This work is strongly recommended for all public libraries and academic libraries with collections on autism and disability studies, as well as for book groups that wish to include a graphic novel. Given the focus on children with special needs, secondary school libraries should also consider it (Source: Corey Seeman, Univ. of Toledo Libs., OH, School Library Journal, Amazon.com). Recommended by Lee, Executive Director, SEEC.

Kaufman, B., & Kaufman, R. (1994). Son-rise: the miracle continues (Reprint ed.).

Tiburon, CA: H.J. Kramer.

The original Son-Rise (1976) described the family trauma of the author, his wife Samahria and their son Raun, who had been diagnosed as autistic, mentally retarded and untreatable. Rather than relegating Raun to an institution, the Kaufmans designed a program which provided intensive therapy on a rigorous schedule that changed all of their lives. Raun is now a college student and a participant in the family's educational foundation. (Publishers Weekly). Recommended by Ron , Independent Filmmaker.

Kaufman, S. (1999). Retarded isn't stupid, mom! (Rev. ed.). Baltimore: H. s.

is 2 years old, and her family, after months of worrying, has just learned she has intellectual disabilities. In a fast-paced, engaging story, mother Kaufman reveals the feelings of denial, guilt, frustration, and eventual acceptance that result in a determination to help her child live an independent life. This edition, revised on the 10th anniversary of the book's original publication, adds a "progress report" that updates readers on 's adult years and reflects on the revolutionary changes in society's attitudes toward people with disabilities. (sPublishing.com). Recommended by Levine, Shrieber Clinical Services Corporation (who remembered this book being recommended by Rosemary Dybwad).

Kingsley, J, and Levitz, M. (1994). Count us in: Growing up with Down syndrome. San

Diego: Harvest Books.

Kingsley and Levitz write about education, employment, ambitions, families, sex and marriage, and their disability -- Down syndrome. At 's birth, the obstetrician said that he'd never learn anything and should be institutionalized. Fortunately, the Kingsleys ignored this advice and their son has since attended school, written poetry, registered to vote, and memorized scripts for appearances on "Sesame Street" and "The Fall Guy." Hearing about Down syndrome directly from these young men has a good deal more impact than reading any guide from a professional or even a parent. ( Donavin, Booklist, Amazon.com). Recommended by Lawrence-Brown, Chair, Inclusive Graduate Programs, St. Bonaventure Univ.; Deborah Safarik, Phil , Assis.t Professor, Special Education, Eastern Michigan Univ.; and Liz Weintraub, Quality Enhancement Specialist, Council on Quality in Leadership.

Kisor, H. (1990). What's that pig outdoors?: A memoir of deafness. New York: Penguin

Books.

Kisor, book editor of the Chicago Sun-Times , lost his hearing after a bout with meningitis at age three and has since relied on spoken language and lip reading. With unflinching candor and telling details, Kisor cites the ways in which being deaf among the hearing shaped his personal and professional experiences (Source: Publisher’s Weekly, Amazon.com). Recommended by Maureen Keyes, Associate Professor, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.

Kupfer, F. (1998). Before and after Zachariah: A family story about a different kind of courage.

Chicago: Academy Chicago.

An intimate chronicle of one family's life with a young, severely neurologically disabled child. The author describes and defends the decision to place Zachariah in an institution. A teacher of writing, Ms. Kupfer has publicly and bitterly criticized families who decide to keep their children with disabilities at home. Even those who condemn this attitude, as we do, will nevertheless find this important reading (Source: SpecialNeeds.com). Recommended by Lynne Tamor, Parent and Advocacy Coordinator, Association for Children's Mental Health.

Kuusisto, S. (1998). Planet of the blind: A memoir. New York: Delta.

“A beautifully written account that graces the reader with painful insight and self-revelation" (Jo Holzer, CDR Executive Director). Kuusisto is a poet, a graduate of the Iowa Writer's Workshop, and a Fulbright scholar. Kuusisto has been legally blind since birth. In his memoir, he writes about his parents' denial of his blindness and his struggles to read and learn in a public school. The author describes his long-standing reluctance to accept his disability because he did not want to feel dependent, recounting his attempts to "pass" as sighted throughout childhood and into adulthood. (Ximena Chrisagis, Fordham Health Sciences Lib., State Univ., Dayton, Ohio, Library Journal, Amazon.com)

Lee, C., & , R. (1992). Faking it: A look into the mind of a creative learner. Portsmouth,

NH: Heinemann.

Faking It is Lee's story of almost two decades of academic frustration, matched by remarkable persistence, resilience, and ingenuity.The story is both a moving account of how people with learning disabilities can be helped to overcome them and, at the same time, a powerful indictment of the system--and it is nationwide--that leaves people like feeling incompetent and stupid (Source: SpecialNeeds.com). Recommended by Maureen Keyes, Associate Professor, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee