.My name is Rebecca and I am a voracious reader. I am also a visually impaired writer and I love to support other authors with disabilities. On this blog, I make an effort to share information about books that include characters that have disabilities. Diverse representation in media is something about which I am incredibly passionate.
As 2019 draws to a close, many authors and bloggers are compiling their “best of the year,” lists. In honor of the end of the year, I wanted to share my own list with some of the best books I’ve read in 2019; however, my year end roundup has a unique spin. These are the best books that I read in 2019 that were related to disability. I hope you will be inspired to support #OwnVoices authors or to expand your knowledge about disability awareness. Sharing our stories brings us closer together. Happy New Year!
#OwnVoices Authors/ Authors who Also Have Disabilities
Image description: The covers of several books are shown
The Bright Side of Darkness by J.E. Pinto (Fiction)- J.E. Pinto is an award winning Christian author who is also blind. I’m so happy that I discovered her work. I highly recommend her.
Daddy Won’t Let Mom Drive the Car: True Tales of Parenting in the Darkby Jo Elizabeth Pinto (Memoir)
How to Wait by Erin M. Kelly (Poetry) – I met Erin at a book signing at our local library. Her poetry is beautiful and I’m so excited for her next book.
I, Win by Win Kelly Charles (Memoir)
Jerry the Squirrel: Volume One by Shawn P.B. Robinson- Jerry the Squirrel is a fun and quirky adventure that both young readers and adults can enjoy! Shawn is an indie author and freelance blogger who shares his journey as he deals with encephalitis.
If Dan Can Shred- You can Too- Dream It; Live it by Danielle Coulter
Strangers Assume by Girlfriend is My Nurseby Shane Burcaw (Content Warning: The author uses very strong language in order to make his point)
Laughing at My Nightmareby Shane Burcaw (Content Warning: The author uses very strong language in order to make his point)
Fiction
The Horse Is Never Wrong by Mary Pagones- The narrator of this fabulous YA horse book has Asperger’s Syndrome. Diverse representation and horses, what’s not to love?
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes –This classic has been on my TBR for ages. So glad I finally got the chance to read it. It made me cry and the story has stuck with me.
The Spec Set by Taya Oklerlund- Neurodivergent kids are the superheroes in this scifi adventure!
With Face Aflameby A.E. Walnofer – I love the diverse cast in this historical fiction novel.
Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton – Although the portrayal of disability deeply troubles me in this novel, I believe it is an important book for those who are interested in the historical portrayal of disability in literary history.
The Mill On the Floss by by George Eliot – George Eliot is a master novelist and Philip is my new book boyfriend.
Theology
Image description: The covers of two theology books
Speaking Out: Gifts of Minstering Undeterred by Disabilitiese dited by Robert L. Walker
Whispers in the Pews: Voices in Mental Illness in the Church by Chris Morris
Children’s Books
The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado – Note: We will be using this book for our children’s message at my church on Christmas Eve; however, when we read it aloud, we won’t be using the word, “crippled.”
Biographies/ Memoirs
Image description: Two books covers and a painting of Lord Byron, a famous poet who is also had a club foot
Thriving Blind: Stories of Real People Succeeding Without Sight by Kristin Smedley
Frankie: The Woman Who Saved Millions from Thalidomide –This book shared the story of Dr. Frances Kelsey, the woman whose work at the FDA prevented thalidomide from being legalized in the United States. I had never heard of her work before and she is now one of my heroes. Dr. Kelsey was a quiet and brave soul who never saw herself as a hero. By diligently doing her job, she saved the lives of many children (thalidomide caused the death of over 2,000 children).
Lord Byron: The Life and Legacy of the Most Famous Romantic Poet
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Rev. Rebecca Writes 
Thank you so much for writing this post and sharing it with the world, I need to support more authors or stories with disabilities and I’m glad I have an already compiled list ready for me to check out! I work with children with disabilities and so I have a real professional interest and care about disability, which makes me want to learn more and educate myself much more. Thank you for sharing this list!
Alex xx
http://allthingsalexx.wordpress.com/
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I’m so glad you found it helpful! Happy holidays!
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This was a great list. I shared it on Twitter. Have a great Christmas.
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