Silke Schnee

'The Prince Who Was Just Himself' is, in fact, a young boy with Down Syndrome. The fictional story is autobiographical, as the author is the Mother of the real life Prince Noah, who, in the story, saves the day by melting the heart of an angry villian who has come to attack Prince Noah's kingdom. The story is unfussy and sweet, and seems to be a story that the author wrote for her child, depicting him as the hero for diffusing a conflict with love. And he was just being himself! If you have a friend or a relative with Down Syndrome, you know how much these individuals remind us constantly what is important, love, joy and being 'in the moment'. In the author's note, the mother admits that when he was born, and they found out about the real life Noah's Down Syndrome, she was 'shocked and sad', but goes on to say that, 'The catalyst for this book was witnessing the effect he had on many people, despite being categorized as disabled.'. Parents educating parents, parents educating the public, this seems to be the vehicle for creating access to a meaningful life for children with a full spectrum of abilities.… (más)

The Prince Who Was Just Himself is an adorable book about young Prince Noah who wasn't quite like his brothers-or anyone else in the kingdom. Prince Noah has a type of Downs Syndrome, which is explained in a very simple and sweet way that I think most children could understand. He is rather slow, simple, and nonathletic, but also very kind. The story just captures my heart as does little Noah. Throughout the story, Noah's behaviors and actions are completely validated in the way they are presented. Even the way he is frequently referred to as The Prince Who was Just Himself tells that it is okay to be different, regardless of what makes you different. It is such a positive book that sends a message that is incredibly important. I hope it both spreads awareness throughout the neurotypical community as well as comfort to those like Noah. We are all just ourselves.… (más)

Prince Noah and the School Pirates by Silke Schnee, illustrated by Heike Sistig, is a fun adventure about inclusion, working together, and having fun. In Prince Noah’s kingdom, the kids are sent off in separate ships to learn skills, such as girls learning to weave and boys learning to fence. Kids with disabilities are sent off in their own boats as well.

Read the full review: rel="nofollow" target="_top">http://savvyverseandwit.com/2016/08/prince-noah-and-the-school-pirates-by-silke-...… (más)