I Can Understand

'I Can Understand' is inspired by my relationship with my older brother Jeremy, who was mentally and physically disabled. When children would see my brother and ask why he looked and acted different, my mother would respond, "He can't talk, but he can understand." Throughout my childhood and into adulthood, I would see children stare at my brother and be afraid of him, simply because they didn't know what it meant to be disabled. This inspired me to write a book to help children have a better understanding of people with special needs. My brother passed away in February 2013, and I want what he taught me to be shared with others. The impact he had on my life is reflected in the book's positive message. The book is geared toward children ages 4-8 and tells the story of Joey and Ava, a brother and sister. Joey is physically and mentally handicapped, while Ava is not. Narrated by Joey, he explains how even though he and Ava are different, they still have similar interests and a loving relationship. Joey lets the reader know what it means to have special needs, and he is simply honest: he explains that he has feelings, and his feelings are hurt when he feels misunderstood. Like all people, Joey wants to be accepted. The book gives Joey an opportunity to speak for himself and the reader gets to learn his perspective. By hearing what Joey has to say, the reader finishes the book with a learned acceptance for those who are different.