By Rebecca Weigler, Steph Carroll, Charlotte Horsfield and Caitíe Woolridge
We’re sharing titles written by disabled authors that we’re excited to see on the shelves. These works shed light on the different ways disability is defined, amplifying the voices of those typically underrepresented in the publishing world.
Shadowed by Carl Deuker
5 November, Clarion Books
Weaving together a narrative that explores the pressures of pursuing a sport at a young age and the challenge of navigating new friendships, Deuker creates a story about two very different characters who come together on the basketball court.
Nate knows that playing soccer is not what he wants for himself, but rather a product of the pressure his parents have put on him. So, when a new neighbour, Lucas, moves onto the street, Nate finds himself discovering a new passion through their friendly, but exciting, games of basketball. Lucas, however, is the total opposite of Nate and his family. Lucas’ family are struggling financially, and he doesn’t see much of his parents. The only family member he is close to is his sister Megan, who has a learning disability, and he dedicates much of his time to her.
As Lucas and Nate begin an unlikely friendship, and Nate learns more about the nature of Lucas’ home life, Nate begins to understand that sport does not have to be about competition or proving anything to anyone, but rather it can be about the strength of friendship, being a part of a team and pursuing his own passion.
How to Tell When We Will Die by Johanna Hedva
7 November, Zando-Hillman Grad Books
Hedva is one of the most influential voices in disability activism, returning this autumn with their debut collection of essays. Their well-known essay titled The Sick Woman Theory is expanded upon in this collection, offering a paradigm-shifting perspective that encourages us to see how politics exploits the sick, and that care and pain are symbiotic.
These essays explore a range of topics, from death to the colour yellow. Hedva wants to rewrite our perspective on disability, and show that disability is not an inconvenience, but just a part of being alive.
Immerse yourself in these perspective-altering essays that reimagine the world and reveal how political structures fuel ableism. Sickness is indeed a fact of life, and with wit, love and pain, Hedva teaches us this through their own experiences, through the lens of America’s healthcare system in particular. This collection offers a new perspective on viewing not only illness but care, encouraging us to see disability as a social experience.
Harry the Horse That Could Not Hear by Micheal DeMonte
12 November, Palmetto Publishing
A thought-provoking story that highlights disability awareness will be published this November, featuring the uplifting story of Harry the horse.
The book uses anthropomorphism through its horse protagonist who faces his biggest challenge when sounds, such as sweet birdsong that he always loved to listen to in the fields with his friends, begin to fade every day. Harry worries about how he will join in if he cannot hear what his friends are saying. Will Harry’s friends be able to find him and will they still wish to be his friend?
Read a book that will transform your perspective and understanding of hearing loss by purchasing this vibrant and colourful children’s book that draws on the author’s personal hearing loss story. This educational and morally enriching children’s book will inform parents, teachers, counsellors and young children around hearing loss and its implications in everyday life. It’s a must-have new title for children’s libraries and schools.
Talking the Talk About Autism by Haley Moss
21 November, Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Based on a lifetime of personal experience, Talking the Talk About Autism offers a variety of ways to initiate conversations about autism. From discussions with colleagues to disclosing autism to friends and family, Moss provides practical strategies to make advocating for yourself easier and more powerful.
Aimed at those with autism and those acting in a support role, Talking the Talk About Autism highlights the important discussions necessary for obtaining support and understanding. Through the exploration of the history and stigmas attached to autism, the book shines a light on the impact of the language used in these discussions and how autism is perceived. From the initial apprehension and worry at disclosing autism, to the practicalities and language used, Moss provides an in-depth account of how to hold space for an often uncomfortable topic. With key ideas for approaching disclosure, including ways to advocate for oneself, Moss aims to ease fears and provide tools for those with autism to receive the support they need.