Deaf and Hard of Hearing

by Autumn Libal

Published 3 February 2015
In a world where most educational and social systems are designed for people who can hear, being deaf or hard of hearing presents young people with a unique set of challenges. They must find ways to communicate and overcome discrimination. In this book you will read about Denzel, who has never missed being able to hear. He was born deaf, and the idea of "sound" is confusing to him. As you follow Denzel's journey through a world designed for the hearing, you'll see him find ways to overcome the challenges of communicating with others. Being deaf doesn't have to be a handicap-and it won't keep Denzel from exploring, learning, or accomplishing his dreams!

Emotional Disturbance

by Autumn Libal

Published 3 February 2015
Being a teenager is never easy. This phase of life is filled with changes, and new, unexpected challenges are always presenting themselves. For someone who has trouble controlling her emotions, these challenges can be especially hard to handle. As you read the story of Sheila, a teenager with an emotional disturbance, you will find out what it means to live with these extra challenges. You'll learn about some of the systems in place to help kids like Sheila, as well as some of the strengths and weaknesses of these systems. You'll discover that teenagers with emotional disturbance aren't so very different from you and your friends!

Chronic Illness

by Autumn Libal

Published 3 February 2015
Not every sickness goes away in a few days or weeks. Unfortunately, some can last for months, years, or even the rest of a person's life. When this happens, it is called a chronic illness. It can cause many difficulties in people's lives, besides the illness itself. With some determination and help from friends and professionals, though, people with chronic illnesses can learn to face these challenges. Every young person faces challenges as they grow up, but those who have chronic illnesses have additional hardships. In this book, as you read Kayla's story, you'll learn about some of the difficulties these teenagers must overcome, and you'll discover some of the treatments and support systems that help them. Kids like Kayla have a tough time-but their lives can also be filled with hope!

Intellectual Disabilities

by Autumn Libal

Published 3 February 2015
New parents who find out they're going to have a child with intellectual challenges are faced with many questions: Will she be able to function in the world? Will she have the same hopes and dreams as other children? Will her life be happy-or filled with sadness and failure? Along with the Brown family, you'll discover the answers to these questions as you read the story of Penelope Brown, a girl with Down syndrome. You'll see Penelope struggle to overcome others' ignorance and prejudice-and you'll watch her as she learns to follow her dreams.