Down syndrome out loud 20+ true stories of disability and determination

This collection offers profiles of 25 individuals who have Down syndrome. The profiles feature mostly young adults, and these engaging personalities represent an array of successful careers, including actors, chefs, entrepreneurs, rappers, models, athletes, and advocates. Each entry describes how they've worked to achieve their dreams, including overcoming physical and cognitive challenges, facing prejudice and doubt, and dealing with bullying and social discrimination. Underlying themes running throughout the sketches include grit and determination, support from parents and siblings, and a strong emphasis on how their lives are joyful and satisfying. Entries run three to four pages and are accompanied by bright illustrations, including full-page portraits. Additional chapters consider high-profile support groups, such as the Special Olympics and Best Buddies International, and offer compilations of quotes, quick facts about Down syndrome, time lines of medical developments and the disability movement, and extensive resources. Notable features (international scope, variety of interests, and details about everyday interests and activities) help bring these individuals and their achievements into the mainstream.

Gr 5 Up--This audiobook explores the accomplishments and lives of individuals with Down syndrome. Hart (Avenging the Owl) explains what Down syndrome is and provides an illuminating and frank discussion of the challenges faced by people with Down syndrome throughout the 20th century and into the present. The author emphasizes that although individuals with Down syndrome may need extra therapies and support, they can be incredibly successful by any measure. Short chapters spotlight a wide-ranging group of individuals, including ballet dancer Christine Lau, photographer Geoffrey Mikol, fashion designer Isabella Springmuhl Tejada, swimmer Karen Gaffney, Congressional lobbyist Kayla McKeon, and many more. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about Down syndrome and advocate for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The book also profiles different events and organizations, including Best Buddies International, the Special Olympics, and the Buddy Walk. Hart narrates her own work with feeling and emotion, maintaining engaging pacing throughout. Her narration is uplifting but never cloying, balancing well-researched back matter with impactful storytelling. VERDICT This vibrant biographical collection of individuals with Down syndrome is insightful and informative, making it a suitable addition to any middle school and young adult nonfiction audiobook collection.--Misty Schattle