Build Empathy by Normalizing Differences with These Children’s Picture Books on Disabilities
Books can help children become more empathetic to those who may be different from them and answer questions they may have about those with disabilities. Children who themselves have disabilities may find themselves represented in this evolving book list. These books, which emphasize abilities, inspire great conversations around accessibility and social justice.
Talk about the issue.
Put yourself in the place of the characters in one of these books. How would it feel to be the character you chose? What challenges would you face? How might you overcome them?
How can you help friends or classmates move through a world that is not always built for them?
How are you the same as someone with different abilities from yours?
My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete
This heartwarming and hopeful story about twins Callie and Charlie, and Charlie’s life as someone on the autism spectrum, is based on the authors’ personal experience. The book emphasizes all of the things Charlie can do, rather than focusing on what he can’t. Charlie teaches those around him about the importance of family, hope, patience, and love.
Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Sonia Sotomayor
Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote this lovely book about children planting a garden. All of the children have different abilities. The book gives a brief overview of each child’s uniqueness, and explains that like the variety of plants in a garden, having people with all kinds of abilities makes the world a more interesting, better place.
We’re All Wonders by R.J. Palacio
Based on the best-selling chapter book Wonder by the same author, this picture book tells the story of Auggie, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. Auggie encourages others to look past appearances to see what’s beneath the surface.
Throughout this story, the reader sees happy young Susan doing all the things other children are doing, including dancing, swimming, misbehaving, and going to school. It is not until the very end that it is revealed that Susan uses a wheelchair. Her physical challenges do not prevent her from living a full life.
The Pirate of Kindergarten by George Ella Lyon
Ginny has double vision, but doesn’t realize this isn’t how most people see until an eye exam at school. Clever illustrations show how someone with double vision might see things, clearly demonstrating to the reader the challenges they face. When Ginny finally sees a doctor, she happily becomes a pirate while wearing the eye patch she needs to correct her vision.
Emmanuel’s Dream: The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah by Laurie Ann Thompson and Sean Qualls
Emmanuel was born with only one usable leg, but that didn’t stop him from one day biking 400 miles across Ghana to raise awareness about those with disabilities. He left home to work to help support his family at age 13, and also lost his mother at a young age. Her encouragement and his own determination lead him to accomplish anything he sets his mind to.
A Boy and a Jaguar by Alan Rabinowitz
A young boy who stutters is convinced he is broken, except when he speaks to animals. Eventually, he learns how to speak without stuttering and his lifelong love of animals leads him to help speak for and protect potentially endangered species. Beautiful illustrations accompany this true story.
My Three Best Friends and Me, Zulay by Cari Best
Inspired by a true story, Zulay, who is blind, runs a race with the support of her teacher and her friends. She also helps others while she learns to use her cane, something she initially struggles to use.
Rescue & Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship by Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes
Step into the shoes of both a rescue dog and a double-amputee. This story alternates between both points of view. The authors, who are both amputees themselves, give the reader a look into what recovery is like (at a level appropriate for children) and how rescue animals can be of service.
Can I Play Too? By Mo Willems
Books featuring Elephant and Piggie are an absolute delight, and this one is no exception. Elephant and Piggie find a creative way to play catch with their new pal, a snake with no arms.
Kami and the Yaks by Andrea Stenn Stryer
Kami is the son of Sherpas living near Mount Everest. He is also deaf. One day, Kami rescues the family’s yaks, despite a dangerous storm. Learn about a different culture, and imagine what it might be like to not be able to use your sense of hearing.
We Move Together by Anne McGuire and Kelly Fritsch
This beautifully illustrated book explores the way people move through spaces in the world. It celebrates accessibility and creativity and will spark great conversations around social justice, disabilities, and equity.
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