About My Brother

About My Brother is a children's book based on Katie's real-life experience growing up with a brother with disabilities. Written from her perspective as an 8-year-old whose brother recently suffered a traumatic brain injury, Katie invites the reader over to play, but with a disclaimer – about her brother. The book takes the reader on a journey from apprehension to empathy, compassion, and laughter as you get to know the author's little brother, Kevin, who is "different." About My Brother provides windows and mirrors into the life of a family with a child who has different abilities. This book is an excellent resource for elementary schools, teachers, schools with neurodiverse programs, and parents of elementary-aged children to introduce discussions around neurodiversity, kindness, empathy, and inclusion.

About My Brother is an excellent learning tool to support: 

Trauma informed instruction 

Social Emotional Learning - empathy, compassion and acceptance 

Diverse families 

Small moments 

Similes and metaphors 

Figurative language 

Character analysis 

Past, present and future 

Flashbacks as story elements 

Special Features Include:

Discussion questions with coordinating Depth of Knowledge (DOK) levels and beyond the text questions, suitable for grades 1 and up.

Testimonials

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Testimonials 〰️

About My Brother fills a gap for siblings of children with special needs. Engaging, child-friendly, with colorful, captivating images and simple language. Discussion questions aid parents/teachers in fostering communication and compassion. - Erin Cavaliere, Special Education Teacher

I recommend this story to anyone looking to diversify their child’s library and expose them to the importance of kindness and empathy for others. -Caroline Segarra,  Learning Specialist and Special Education Administrator

The author draws from her own lived experience to create a narrative that honors her deep love for her brother, but doesn't shy away from exploring some of the challenges of having a sibling with special needs. We are given a glimpse into the love and protection she offers him, and a deeper understanding of the impact ableism can have on individuals and their families. We also get an idea of how this may have shaped her development and the ways in which she accommodated to protect him from those who weren’t always kind. Books that genuinely and courageously represent the experiences of marginalized individuals are a crucial component of any classroom library, and About My Brother does just that. -Laura K. John-Mora, LMSW