Books about Disability For Kids: 2024 Updated Guide to Essential Reading

Are you looking for the best books on disability for kids that are both educational and entertaining? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 most captivating and insightful books about disability for kids that will inspire, educate, and foster empathy. These books cover a wide range of disabilities and are filled with heartwarming stories and diverse characters that children of all ages will love. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or librarian, these disability for kids books are a must-have for any young reader’s library.

20 Best Books About Disability For Kids

El Deafo

by Cece Bell

El Deafo by Cece Bell is a heartwarming graphic novel that tells the story of a young girl who navigates the challenges of growing up with a hearing impairment. Through colorful illustrations and a relatable narrative, the book provides a unique perspective on the experience of living with a disability. Cece’s alter ego, El Deafo, a superhero with special hearing abilities, helps her navigate the ups and downs of school and friendship. This book about disability for kids is an inspiring and empowering story that promotes understanding and empathy. It’s perfect for young readers who want to learn more about the experiences of others and the power of embracing differences. El Deafo is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming and insightful book on disability for kids.

Out of My Mind

by Sharon M. Draper

Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper is a compelling and heartwarming book about a young girl with a disability. Melody, the main character, is unable to speak or walk, but she has a brilliant mind and a strong spirit. The story follows her journey as she navigates through the challenges of being underestimated and misunderstood because of her disability. Melody’s determination to be heard and seen for who she truly is will inspire and captivate readers of all ages. This book about disability for kids sheds light on the importance of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. Through Melody’s story, readers will gain a new perspective on the abilities and potential of individuals with disabilities. Out of My Mind is a must-read for anyone looking for a touching and eye-opening story that celebrates the power of perseverance and the beauty of diversity.

Wonder

by R.J. Palacio

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming and thought-provoking book about the challenges and triumphs of a young boy with facial differences. This compelling book about disability for kids follows Auggie Pullman as he navigates the ups and downs of starting school for the first time. Through Auggie’s experiences, readers are invited to explore themes of empathy, friendship, and acceptance. The story is told from multiple perspectives, offering a well-rounded look at how Auggie’s condition impacts those around him. With its engaging narrative and relatable characters, Wonder is a must-read for children and adults alike, providing valuable insights into the world of those with differences and the power of kindness.

Fish in a Tree

by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is an inspiring and heartwarming book about a young girl named Ally who struggles with dyslexia, a learning difference. The story follows Ally as she navigates through school, feeling like she doesn’t fit in and constantly getting into trouble. However, with the help of a supportive teacher and new friends, Ally learns to embrace her differences and discovers her own unique strengths. This is a powerful and touching book about overcoming challenges and the importance of understanding and supporting those with learning differences. Fish in a Tree is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling and uplifting book on disability for kids that teaches empathy, resilience, and the value of diversity.

The War That Saved My Life

by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is a heartwarming book about disability for kids. Set during World War II, it tells the story of Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who has been kept hidden away by her abusive mother. When Ada and her brother are evacuated from London to the countryside, they find safety and a new family with Susan, a woman who helps Ada learn to walk and embrace her independence. As the war rages on, Ada discovers her own strength and resilience, defying the limitations imposed on her by her disability. This poignant and uplifting novel is a powerful portrayal of love, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit. The War That Saved My Life is a must-read for anyone seeking a moving book on disability for kids.

Roll with It

by Jamie Sumner

Roll with It by Jamie Sumner is a heartwarming and inspiring book about a twelve-year-old girl named Ellie who is determined to navigate life with cerebral palsy on her own terms. This beautifully written story provides a candid and insightful look into the challenges and triumphs of living with a disability, and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness. Sumner skillfully weaves together themes of friendship, family, and the power of resilience, creating a moving and relatable narrative that will resonate with readers of all ages. With its engaging and authentic portrayal of a young protagonist with a disability, Roll with It is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling and empowering book about disability for kids.

The Thing About Jellyfish

by Ali Benjamin

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a poignant and captivating book on disability for kids that tells the story of a young girl named Suzy as she grapples with the sudden death of her best friend. Suzy is determined to uncover the truth behind the tragedy, and she turns to her passion for jellyfish to find answers. As she delves into the scientific world of jellyfish, Suzy also navigates her own feelings of grief and guilt, while coming to terms with her friend’s disability. The book’s exploration of friendship, loss, and the complexities of disability for kids is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. With beautiful prose and a touching narrative, The Thing About Jellyfish is a must-read for anyone looking for a moving and insightful book about disability for kids.

Rules

by Cynthia Lord

Rules by Cynthia Lord is a heartwarming and insightful book about a young girl named Catherine, whose brother David has autism. The story follows Catherine as she navigates the challenges of having a sibling with a disability for kids, and the rules she creates to help David understand the world around him. As Catherine befriends a nonverbal boy named Jason, she learns valuable lessons about empathy, acceptance, and the true meaning of friendship. This touching book about disability for kids is filled with humor, compassion, and important messages about inclusivity and understanding. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming and educational story that explores the complexities of living with a disability for kids.

The Crossover

by Kwame Alexander

The Crossover by Kwame Alexander is a captivating novel in verse that follows the story of twin brothers, Josh and Jordan, as they navigate life, love, and basketball. Set in a lyrical and rhythmic style, the book explores the bonds of family, the challenges of growing up, and the power of sports to bring people together. With themes of friendship, rivalry, and perseverance, this book is a must-read for young readers who love sports and poetry. The story also touches on the topic of physical challenges, making it an important book about disability for kids. Through its relatable characters and engaging storytelling, The Crossover offers a unique and heartfelt perspective on the experiences of individuals with disabilities.

Counting by 7s

by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan is a heartwarming and insightful book about overcoming adversity and finding family in unexpected places. The story follows Willow Chance, a twelve-year-old genius who struggles with social skills and finds solace in counting by 7s. After a tragic event leaves her orphaned, Willow’s life takes an unexpected turn as she navigates through the foster care system and finds support from an unlikely group of people. This touching novel beautifully explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the power of community. It is a must-read for anyone looking for a moving and uplifting book about disability for kids.

The Running Dream

by Wendelin Van Draanen

The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen is a powerful and inspiring book about a teenage girl named Jessica who loses her leg in a tragic accident. The story follows her journey as she copes with her new reality and learns to navigate life with a disability. As she struggles to come to terms with her situation, she discovers the joy of running again with the help of a supportive community and a new friend. This heartwarming tale explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the power of determination. It is a must-read book about disability for kids, offering a poignant and uplifting perspective on overcoming challenges. The Running Dream is a touching and relatable story that will resonate with readers of all ages.

Mockingbird

by Kathryn Erskine

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine is a compelling book about a young girl named Caitlin who has Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism. The story follows Caitlin as she grapples with the loss of her brother in a school shooting and tries to make sense of the world around her. The book provides a poignant and insightful exploration of grief, empathy, and understanding, offering a unique perspective on the challenges of living with a neurodevelopmental disorder. Mockingbird is a heartwarming and thought-provoking read that is both relatable and educational, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a book about disability for kids. It is a touching and powerful story that will resonate with readers of all ages.

Rain Reign

by Ann M. Martin

Rain Reign by Ann M. Martin is a heartwarming and compelling story about a young girl named Rose who has Asperger’s syndrome. The book delves into the challenges and triumphs of living with a neurodevelopmental disorder, providing a unique perspective on the experiences of children with disabilities. Rose’s love for homonyms and her dog, Rain, is at the center of the story, showcasing her unique way of navigating the world. As she grapples with the loss of her beloved pet and struggles to find her place in the world, readers are taken on an emotional journey filled with empathy and understanding. Rain Reign is a beautifully written and poignant book about disability for kids, shedding light on the complexities of living with a different ability and the power of love and resilience.

The One and Only Ivan

by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming and powerful tale about a silverback gorilla named Ivan. Living in captivity at a shopping mall, Ivan spends his days painting and reflecting on his life. When a baby elephant named Ruby arrives, Ivan’s perspective shifts, and he begins to see the world in a new light. This touching story explores themes of friendship, hope, and the importance of empathy. Through Ivan’s journey, young readers will gain a deeper understanding of compassion and the resilience of the human spirit. With its powerful message and memorable characters, The One and Only Ivan is a must-read for anyone looking for a book on disability for kids that will inspire and uplift.

A Mango-Shaped Space

by Wendy Mass

A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass is a captivating book about a young girl named Mia who has synesthesia, a condition where she sees colors and shapes in connection with letters and numbers. This touching story follows Mia as she navigates the challenges of middle school, dealing with her unique perception of the world, and coming to terms with the loss of her beloved grandfather. With themes of friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery, this book provides an insightful look into the experiences of individuals with sensory differences. A Mango-Shaped Space is an enlightening and heartwarming read that offers a valuable perspective on the diversity of human experience. This is a must-read for anyone looking for a beautifully written and thought-provoking book about disability for kids.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin

by Julia Finley Mosca

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca is an inspiring biography about a remarkable woman with autism. This book on disability for kids highlights Dr. Temple Grandin’s unique way of thinking and her incredible achievements despite the challenges she faced. Through engaging and vibrant illustrations, young readers will learn about Dr. Grandin’s struggles and triumphs, and how she used her different way of thinking to become a successful scientist and advocate for animals. This book about disability for kids celebrates neurodiversity and teaches children the importance of embracing differences and pursuing their passions. With its empowering message and captivating storytelling, The Girl Who Thought in Pictures is a must-read disability for kids book that will inspire and educate young readers.

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

by Stacy McAnulty

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty is a heartwarming and inspiring book about a young girl with exceptional math skills and a form of neurodiversity. The story follows Lucy, a math genius who was struck by lightning and gained extraordinary abilities, but also developed OCD. After being homeschooled, Lucy is challenged to attend middle school, where she must navigate new friendships and her own anxieties. This book about disability for kids explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the power of embracing our differences. Stacy McAnulty’s engaging storytelling and authentic portrayal of neurodiversity make this a must-read for children and adults alike. The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl is a powerful and uplifting tale that celebrates the unique strengths and talents of every individual.

The Great Gilly Hopkins

by Katherine Paterson

The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson is a heartwarming and thought-provoking book about a young girl in foster care who struggles with her own feelings of abandonment and rejection. Gilly, the main character, is a feisty and independent eleven-year-old with a sharp tongue and a tough exterior. She is determined to find her birth mother, but as she moves from one foster home to another, she begins to form unexpected connections with her new family and starts to question what it truly means to belong. This poignant story delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of foster care. It is a beautifully written book that provides a compassionate and insightful look into the experiences of children in the foster care system. The Great Gilly Hopkins is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling and emotional book about disability for kids.

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle

by Leslie Connor

The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle by Leslie Connor is a heartwarming and poignant book about a young boy with learning differences and physical challenges. Mason Buttle faces bullying, grief, and struggles with his own self-worth. The story follows Mason as he navigates through his difficulties with the help of his best friend and a new friend, as well as a supportive teacher. The book explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the power of speaking the truth. It is a compassionate and insightful read that sheds light on the experiences of children with disabilities. The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle is a must-read for anyone looking for a touching and compelling book on disability for kids.

The Mighty Miss Malone

by Christopher Paul Curtis

The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis is a heartwarming and inspiring book about a young girl named Deza Malone and her family as they struggle to survive during the Great Depression. This beautifully written story provides a poignant and insightful look into the challenges faced by a family dealing with financial hardships, discrimination, and the impact of disability. Through Deza’s strong and resilient character, readers will be drawn into a tale of hope, perseverance, and the power of love and family. This book about disability for kids is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. With its engaging storytelling and memorable characters, The Mighty Miss Malone is a must-read for young readers looking for a compelling and uplifting story.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about Disability For Kids offer valuable and diverse perspectives on living with disabilities. Through engaging stories and characters, children can learn empathy, understanding, and the importance of inclusion. These books have the power to educate and inspire young readers, making them essential additions to any library or classroom. Whether a child has a disability or not, these books provide valuable lessons that can benefit all.

Which Disability For Kids book is best?

The best book on Disability For Kids can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. El Deafo by Cece Bell,
  2. Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper,
  3. Wonder by R.J. Palacio.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Disability For Kids?

For those looking to learn about Disability For Kids, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. El Deafo by Cece Bell,
  2. Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper,
  3. Wonder by R.J. Palacio,
  4. Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt,
  5. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley,
  6. Roll with It by Jamie Sumner,
  7. The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin,
  8. Rules by Cynthia Lord,
  9. The Crossover by Kwame Alexander,
  10. Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan

These books offer a range of perspectives on Disability For Kids, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books on Disability For Kids?

The best books on Disability For Kids include:

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Disability For Kids are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Disability For Kids books of all time?

Choosing the best Disability For Kids books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include