Burcaw, Shane. Not So Different: What You Really Want To Ask About Having A Disability. Roaring Brook Press, 2017.
Not So Different is written by Shane Burcaw and includes photographs by Matt Carr. It is a 2018 Sibert Honor Book. The book is an informational picture book giving readers information about someone who has a disability. It is targeted to readers in grades 1-5, but could be read to younger readers. The ebook is reviewed.
It is written based on Burcaw’s first hand experiences. An “author’s note” is included at the end of the story. He explains spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in more detail than in the story. He shares personal information such as his passion for sports and his close relationships. He also discusses his writing and his current work through his nonprofit company, Laughing at My Nightmare, Inc. (LAMN).
The cover of Not So Different includes an image of Burcaw inviting readers to “Go Ahead, Ask Me.” The story follows a question and answer format and is written in an honest, conversational tone. The questions are posted at the top in a callout bubble with a font that differs from the answer. It looks as though a reader is asking the question. Most of the spreads reflect a question and a response created from a mix of photographs and text. Via this format, readers will learn about SMA along with how he goes about daily life, eating, playing, and getting around town.
The author shares his story clearly and honestly. Each page includes real photographs of Burcaw to complement the topic addressed. Burcaw words his answers to inform readers. From the beginning question, “What’s wrong with you?” His response includes “nothing is wrong…” He follows this with his diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy. The book uses the photographs as an integral part of the story. For example, when answering what his family helps him with, the image shows 3 pairs of hands hold different items (e.g., toothbrush). He also interjects humor in his responses. When describing how his wheelchair works, he shares he can “pop a wheelie” with his brother’s help. He also describes a lift as a “Shane-o-vator.”
It reads rather well as an ebook. An advantage of this format is the ability to easily search answers to questions the text might generate.
Book Notes 