Buster Bear and Uncle B by J. Aday Kennedy, with art by Marina Movshina, is
a special story by a “differently-abled” author. This book is a uplifting as well as
entertaining. It shows how love and
faith conquer disability.
Ham's beloved Uncle B became
paralyzed in the war. He's come to visit
his nephew Ham, who is shocked by Uncle B's appearance. Confined to a wheelchair, Uncle B could have become
bitter and limited by his condition. But
he isn't. He plays with Ham, just as
before. Uncle B shows off his
"wheelie" prowess and his skills in wheelchair basketball. But the best moment in the story is when Ham
climbs onto Uncle B's lap and gives him a great big hug, just like old times. This story reminds us not to give up hope in
the face of adversity and disability. It shows that people we love are the same
inwardly even if their outward appearance changes.

This is a story of love and
faith triumphing over disability. Uncle
B isn't angry at God for his paralysis. In
accepting his situation, Uncle B shows his nephew that love and faith are much
stronger than any disability. Through
the strong bond of their loving relationship, Ham and Uncle B will find new
ways to enjoy each other and share good times together. The message is universal: love means hope and acceptance.
The art by Marina Movshina
is wonderfully expressive. You clearly
see Ham as a happy boy living in a loving family that includes his beloved
Uncle B. Even though disabled, Uncle B
maintains his positive outlook and shares that with his nephew. It's a moving story. We feel and see the love and joy in J. Aday
Kennedy's positive words and Marina Movshina's beautiful illustrations.
This story has special
meaning for me, since my youngest nephew survived a near-fatal motorcycle
accident that left him an amputee with extensive nerve damage on his good right
side. He was determined to walk and swim
and he does. He was determined to work and
live a full life and he is.
J. Aday Kennedy's paralysis
hasn't dampened her spirit or limited her creativity. She has included a K-3 Teacher’s Guide to
address disability issues presented in her book. She continues to bring us wonderful books
about love, determination, acceptance, and hope. She shows us that our appearance isn’t all
that we are. I recommend this book
wholeheartedly.
Available through Guardian Angel Publishing: www.guardianangelpublishing.com.
Available through Guardian Angel Publishing: www.guardianangelpublishing.com.
What a marvelous and inspiring post! To have a true hero like Jessica in our midst is really something!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Penelope, for sharing this amazing journey and to Marina for bringing it all to life...
Thank you for the great review, Penelope. It sounds like a terrific book to help children understand disability better with a positive attitude about it. Jessica is an inspiration and so creative!
ReplyDeleteThis was a wonderful post Penelope. Jessica is an inspiring author, friend, human being. Love her so much! Thank you for your kind informative words. I always enjoy reading about Jess and what she writes.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great book!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Janet,
ReplyDeleteAppreciate your comments!