Singlehandedly: Learning to Unhide and Embrace Connection

by Ruth Rathblott

Chances are there is something about you that makes you different, that makes you feel you don’t belong. Many of us hide—our ethnicity, sexuality, mental health, disability, religion…the list goes on. The diversity and inclusion movement has emboldened some to come out of the shadows. But too often, disability is not included in that conversation.

Ruth Rathblott was born with a limb difference. In her compelling and intimate memoir, she recounts the exhausting and often lonely years she spent overachieving and trying to hide her disability before she learned to unhide. She takes us on a journey of discovering her difference, being taught to hide it, and ultimately finding self-acceptance and connection with others.

This book will show you how to build a world of true acceptance, inclusion, and belonging. By the end, you will understand the need

· Own your difference—it’s your greatest gift!
· Find connection and community by allowing others in to support you
· Create inclusive conversations that allow for curiosity and empathy
· Recognize why representation is essential to creating an inclusive environment
· Realize the power of sharing your story

Singlehandedly is a book for all of us who have been hiding our differences and want to find freedom, for leaders who want to build more inclusive teams, and for diversity and inclusion directors committed to expanding the diversity conversation to include everyone .

202 pages, Paperback

Published July 14, 2022

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved loved loved the author’s vulnerability and reading about how she came to love her true self. Rathblott’s openness and personality came through in each chapter. I smiled often. Loved the format and challenges she set forth for the reader. I identified with so much - especially as a mom/wife with a child and husband with learning differences. Diversity and inclusion matter!

[Anne Mason · Rating 3 out of 5]

The heart of this book is absolutely beautiful, and a message often sidestepped in day-to-day conversation. I’m glad I took the time to read each chapter with focus and intention, and to use the reflection questions that conclude each chapter for prompted journaling. Despite occasional bouts of repetition, this book is an excellent tool for those who have played a sideline role in their own stories of difference, as well as for those who have enjoyed the privilege of rarely having to consider what makes them different. I am definitely feeling inspired to write more, speak openly, and share my own story widely!

[Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned about this book from Rayon Brown the Vice President for DEI at Fox Valley Technical College when he was working with my district's Diversity & Inclusion committee. I think this book has some valuable lessons for work around DEI and I think the challenges at the end of each chapter would lend themselves well to book club discussions.

[Thibaud Sanchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book at an event I went to last year. The author opened my eyes. I talked about the ableist language that is used on a daily basis. One of the audience members took my comment well. By reading this book I learned more about her growing up with a disability.

[Dhruva Reddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruth tells her story to illustrate the dangers of hiding the things that make you different or unique. It's a feel-good narrative and a refreshing take on authenticity.