ALL OF US

“Being Disabled means different things to different people.”

The characters in this work use various terms to describe themselves; one character holds a sign reading “Proud To Be Crazy,” while another declares, “I’m autistic!” “We can use the words that people want us to use to describe them,” notes an unseen narrator. In straightforward, declarative sentences, Madison and Ralli emphasize that “THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS NORMAL.” Unfortunately, there is a “big problem called ableism,” which is “the untrue story that there is a normal or better way for bodies to be.” Examples include making fun of disabled people or underestimating their capabilities, as well as grown-ups voting for “leaders who build parks and schools where Disabled kids can’t play and learn with everyone else.” Fortunately, kids can advocate for disability justice by standing up to bullies, listening to disabled people, and coming together to “change unfair rules.” Eden’s cartoon illustrations clearly depict racially diverse people with myriad physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities. Interspersed questions such as “What kind of help do you need?” encourage thoughtful discussion. Backmatter addressed to caregivers offers tips on addressing disability and explores such topics as the medical and social models of disability and identity versus person-first language.

An accessible introduction to disability and allyship.