My Sister is Different

by Betty Ren Wright, Helen Cogancherry (Illustrator)

Carlo struggles with his positive and negative feelings about his mentally handicapped sister.

Genres: Childrens

Paperback

First published September 1, 1981

About the author

Betty Ren Wright was an award-winning author of children's fiction including The Dollhouse Murders, The Ghosts Of Mercy Manor and A Ghost in The House.

Known for her ghost stories and mysteries, Wright published 28 children's novels between 1981 and 2006, as well as picture books and short stories. Prior to pursuing her career as a full-time author in 1978, she worked as an editor of children's books.

Wright lived in Wisconsin with her husband, painter George A. Fredericksen, until her death in 2013.

Reviews

[Sammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was at the Preschool in which I worked part-time as an English Teacher, and I just went to check out the books they had for the Preschool kids. This storybook was one of many, and I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I have not read any storybook that tackles the topic of children with special needs, and how young kids handle family members with special needs. This is an adorable story with great illustrations, I really enjoyed reading it.

[Robert Peate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me cry, it is so well written. Because it came out in 1981, before the age of political correctness, it refers to Terry as "mentally retarded", but the WHOLE POINT OF THE BOOK is that we must all treat everyone with respect and love. I love this book, though I understand that one phrase might give today's readers pause.

[Toad Soup · Rating 3 out of 5]

Carlos’ grandma knew wtf was up

[Priscilla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Minha Irmã É Diferente é um livro curto, com desenhos lindos e letras grandes para facilitar a leitura de crianças em fase de alfabetização. Mas, o que chama a atenção nele é o tema: a aceitação de crianças especiais por seus irmãos.

Na obra, Carlo narra a experiência de conviver com Terry, sua irmã "diferente". Em nenhum momento fica claro qual o problema dela, embora haja uma certa referência a síndrome de Down.

O objetivo da autora Betty Wrigth é sensibilizar a criança que lê, pôr-se no lugar do outro. É uma história simples e bem feita.

[Michelle Farella · Rating 3 out of 5]

The language doesn't hold up, but the story was very touching.

[Michelle G. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Carolos's sister is mentally retarded. He transitions from hating to loving after losing her in a crowded shopping mall.

[Renae Williams]

I would read this book to all students, it is a book about a young lady with a mentally disabled sibling. A great book to teach the acceptance of all.