Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I don't know if series author Ann M. Martin either personally has disabilities herself, and/or knows the real-life struggles of people who do, but this is an unflinchingly realistic account of what it is like to be a teenager with a disability in America. Years after reading it in a fourth grade English class, I remain impressed at the storyline candor.
Sure, there are laws on the books then protecting Stacey's access to education...etc but her real challenges come from insensitive peers. A friend had liked Stacey until she found out that Stacey had diabetes during a sleepover, and then ended their friendship abruptly. Having endured identical torturous experience for my own disability, I appreciate the unflinchingly honest (and even descriptively blunt) account of what this reality is like.
Likewise, the issue of well-meaning but over protective parents are brought up. Stacey's minor status is compounded by the fact that she is also a person with a disability. Rushing to 'help' her with something they do not personally themselves have, parental actions frustrate Stacey. She loves them dearly, but wants her life to be much more than hospitals and doctors---Stacey only wants to be a 'normal' kid.
Yes, this subject area might go beyond standard children's fare, but taking note of the human effects of discrimination and 'difference' are important. Even if they do not have disabilities themselves, young adults should read this book to realize that teasing other people because of their disability does hurt everybody.
Click Here to see more reviews about: The Truth About Stacey, Collector's Edition (Baby-Sitters Club, No. 3)
Stacey, a member of the Baby-sitters Club, learns to cope with her diabetes and her overprotective parents.
