The true story of a young girl with Cerebral Palsy and her family who took their fight for inclusivity in schools to the Supreme Court.
The true story of Emily Eaton. Born with severe cerebral palsy, Emily and her family had to fight for her right to go to school with non-disabled children in a regular classroom. Their fight, which began at a time when children with CP were segregated, was groundbreaking. Unwilling to take no for an answer, Emily's fight would take her all the way to the Supreme Court. Eventually victorious, Emily’s story makes her an amazing role model for children everywhere - whether they are living with a disability or not.
Praise & Recognition
By using a combination of dialogue and narrative, author McDonnell reveals Emily’s personality, her family relationships, and her many accomplishments.
Good News Toronto
This book is an enjoyable read as it stands. However in the hands of educators and caregivers, its value for children will be greatly enhanced through discussion of the various thought-provoking topics it engenders.
Canadian Children's Book News
This book offers a unique poignancy, captured in photos and an epilogue written by Emily herself, that comes from its real-life implications and that other resources on the topic often lack. It presents issues of equality, access, and parity in a narrative style that is easily accessible to any child who may be experiencing their own uncertainty with inclusion situations at school.
Canadian Teachers Magazine
This excellent biography exposes the reader to the world of living with disabilities and to the advantages of inclusive education for all children.
Chidren's Books Heal
Kathleen McDonnell has written an inspirational narrative about Emily’s remarkable journey to attend school with non-disabled children. What I found fascinating was that Emily’s teachers and students found how much they benefited from her participation in school.
Ontario Library Association Golden Oak Award 2014 - Short-listed
IBBY Collection of Books for Young People with Disabilities Outstanding Book 2015 - Short-listed
Red Cedar Book Award 2013 - Short-listed
Hackmatack Children's Choice Book Award 2013 - Short-listed
Kathleen McDonnell is an award-winning author and playwright of adult and children’s literature, including The Notherland Journeys series – The Nordlings, The Shining World, and The Songweavers – and Honey, We Lost the Kids. Born in Chicago, Kathleen lives in Toronto with her family.
