Special: Antidotes to the obsessions that come with a child’s disability
Special is an uplifting, candid companion for those in the early stages of navigating a child’s disability, offering honest, reassuring and relatable insight into a largely unknown (and so, initially terrifying) part of our world.
It features antidotes to the obsessions at the forefront of a newly minted disability parent’s mind: Why has this happened to me? Will I ever stop comparing my child to typical children? How will my relationship survive? Will I be able to work again? Should I have another baby? And the big one: What will my future look like?
Inspired by my own crash-landing into disability parenthood, and shaped by my conversations with parents of children with wide-ranging disabilities, Special shares real stories, expert guidance and simple coping strategies to soothe anyone whose life has taken an unexpected turn.
Photography by Smack Bang Designs
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'Raw, brave and compelling. This book airs a parent's most guilt-riddled thoughts and then turns them on their head.'
– Mia Freedman, co-founder of Australian Women's Media Company, Mamamia
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'Special is so beautifully written, touching, helpful and insightful. I wish, wish, wish I had it ten years ago! If I had known the joy and happiness being a special-needs mother would bring, my blanket of suffering would have been lifted. It's going to be a lifesaver for special-needs parents.'
– Ondine Sherman, author of The Miracle of Love
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'Special is an honest, beautifully written and realistic account of the important issues that preoccupy the minds of families. This incredibly hopeful book combines the experiences of families with the latest evidence in positive psychology into a compelling message. It provides the reassurance and guidance that I needed when I was in this situation almost three decades ago, and so I believe this book is essential for those who have found themselves on this unexpected pathway.'
– Sylvana Mahmic, CEO of Plumtree Children's Services