I Am a Masterpiece
by Mia Armstrong
Illustrations by Alexandra Thompson
Random House Children's Books
a divisiion of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
40 pages
A note from the author about Down Syndrome
ISBN: 9780593567975
Editorial Review: “A celebration of self-advocacy, self-expression, and self-acceptance.” —Kirkus Reviews
My review:
I Am A Masterpiece is a tribute to the genius, creativity and spunk of tween activist and actress Mia Armstrong and everyone like her. Mia was born with Down Syndrome, which makes her different from other people, but all humans have dreams and desires. While she may look a bit different, and her speech might sound different, she likes to do the same things other kids do: she likes to draw, she loves roller coasters and sleepovers.
Sometimes grown-ups treat her like she's invisible, but her mother tells her to practice patience. Some people need to be taught that different is amazing.
The actress herself believes her superpower is her Down Syndrome. It makes her empathetic and sweet. She knows when someone needs a hug or a kind word without them telling her. She may not wear a cape like a superhero, but she is one. This book is a celebration of acceptance and growth. It is such a positive message for all families and children with Down Syndrome.
In her note, Mia explains that Down Syndrome is not the "r" word. People with Down Syndrome are intelligent and creative. The reason her voice sounds different is that the tongue is a muscle, and her muscles are "floppy." It doesn't mean she's not intelligent or that she can't speak. Different is not scary. Different is good.
Highly recommended for all collections grades 3 and up. Inclusiveness, celebrating differences, Down Syndrome, educational, activism.
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