Her journey in understanding herself, her Autism, ADHD and SPD (people can have more than one disability!) was really heartwarming. Where the confusing and overstimulated world of Peta was so encompassing. The frustrations of not being understood really came through in this first-person point of view story. This is a story about Peta’s journey of challenging her understanding of normality in the face of her gender and sexuality. However, Whateley tackled some hard topics. This lovely #OwnVoices queer young adult romance made me feel warm and fuzzy. Please do not read this book if this might be triggering to you. Peta Lyre’s Rating Normal by Anna WhateleyĬontent warning: Mentions of domestic violence, poverty, ableism, sexual harassment/assault and mental health. It was refreshingly non-sensationalistic. Hibbert also touched on having a disability and being a person of colour.

I was pleasantly surprised that Hibbert explored and normalised men’s mental health and seeking help. Hibbert has done a fantastic job at challenging stereotypes.

or finding it hard to trust new people because her friends abandoned her when she acquired her chronic illness.Īll showcase the candid emotional, social, and practical experiences of living with disability.

or creating her own business because finding accessible employment is nearly impossible.

However, Hibbert has captured the experience of living with disability genuinely and thoughtfully.įor example, there are moments when Chloe is: Her male love interest, Red, experiences mental health issues.ĭisability cannot be ignored in relationships, and it can be challenging to maintain healthy relationship dynamics in some cases.

For example: a disabled author writing a book about a disabled character.#OwnVoices story features a black, chronically ill female main character, Chloe, starting a relationship. This When a book about a group of people is written by someone from that group. The writing is beautiful, the story is engaging, and most importantly, the representation makes me feel seen. The Good: Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia HibbertĬontent warning: Psychological and emotional abuse, violence, mental health issues, and ableism.

However, not seeing yourself represented in them can be challenging.Īnd so, I went on an adventure to find accurate disability representation in romance books. Jane Austen is queen! Romance books are a pivotal part of understanding love, romance, relationships, and sexuality as a young person. As a historically underrepresented demographic in society, it is no surprise that disabled people are not often seen in literature.

Love In Touch by Lucy May Lennox