Down Syndrome Out Loud: 20+ True Stories of Disability and Determination

Gr 5 Up–This book explores the accomplishments and lives of individuals with Down syndrome. Hart (Avenging the Owl) explains what Down syndrome is and provides an illuminating and frank discussion of the challenges faced by people with Down syndrome throughout the 20th century and into the present. The author emphasizes that although individuals with Down syndrome may need extra therapies and support, they can be incredibly successful by any measure. Short chapters spotlight a wide-ranging group of individuals, including ballet dancer Christine Lau, photographer Geoffrey Mikol, fashion designer Isabella Springmuhl Tejada, swimmer Karen Gaffney, Congressional lobbyist Kayla McKeon, and many more. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about Down syndrome and advocate for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The book also profiles different events and organizations, including Best Buddies International, the Special Olympics, and The Buddy Walk. Hart narrates her own work with feeling and emotion, maintaining engaging pacing throughout. Her narration is uplifting but never cloying, balancing well-researched back matter with impactful storytelling.