This book made me laugh, cry, and cheer.
The special education teacher in me loved reading this book about a courageous mother and determined intellectually-challenged young adult.
The parent/mom in me loved reading about the maternal love, hope, and bravery of this family.
STORY SUMMARY
Alicia Richards is a liberal arts college literature professor. She is also the ex-wife of Randell, who heads up the literature department at the college. They have a daughter, Chloe, who was born with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome). Chloe is verbal but has difficulty with articulation so is often hard to understand. Her IQ is below 50. Randell sees her once a week when he takes her out to dinner. He tends to ignore her. Alicia is raising her on her own and brings her to Miss Minnie's, an adult daycare for special needs people over 21, when she has to teach classes.
It is at Miss Minnie's that Chloe meets a boy named Thomas. And falls in love. She is 25. Thomas is mentally challenged as well but does not have Down Syndrome. His language skills are fairly good although he does stutter. He is able to read a little. Thomas and Chloe decide that they are going to get married.
Chloe is funny, kind, and sweet. But....like many Downs people, she is stubborn and is prone to temper tantrums when she doesn't get her own way, or when things around her change.
Alicia and her best friend Jin, want what's best for Chloe. Does that include love and marriage?? And what about pregnancy??
Alicia strives to accept this new idea of Chloe becoming more independent and dating. But she has many concerns. Will her misgivings give way to new possibilities for her beloved daughter?
MY THOUGHTS
I enjoyed this book. It gives the reader a good picture of what life is like for people who raise children with special needs. The constant care giving that must take place. The constant reminders that their child is "different" yet with all the same feelings that we all have.
It is a very moving story. It will make you laugh. And cry. And cheer. It is about healing and embracing change. It is about hope. And love.
In my opinion, this book is appropriate for ages 14 and older.
On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest, I rate this a 9.
3 comments:
This sounds right up my alley. I'll look for it at the library.
Faith, thanks so much for sharing about this book. I think I shall add it to my wish list.
Enjoyed reading your Friday Faves and hearing about this book. So glad to hear that children and adults with special needs are getting attention and awareness in books.
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