Supported by Story: The Importance of Neurodivergent Representation in Middle Grade Fiction
Title and/or Affiliation
Author/Illustrator
Presenter Bio
Rebekah Lowell is an author/illustrator from Maine. She is also a survivor of a decade of domestic abuse and captivity. She holds a BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design and an MFA from Hollins University. Out now is THE ROAD TO AFTER (Nancy Paulsen Books), and her debut picture book, CATCHING FLIGHT (Doubleday) publishes in March 2023. www.rebekahlowell.com
Session
Panel: Children Not Seen or Heard
Location
Zoom
Start Date
8-7-2022 4:15 PM
End Date
8-7-2022 5:30 PM
Abstract
Fear arises when we don’t understand. When we fear, we avoid, exclude, and create the ‘other’, who then feels that pain. In this paper I will explore the importance of neurodivergent representation in middle grade fiction and how these books can empower, encourage, and foster empathy and acceptance. Literature which creates an authentic narrative regarding mental health can help young readers feel less alone. Instead of feeling defeated by their differences, young readers can feel seen and step into their own truth. As individuals are supported by story, their own narrative begins to shift. Like the character of Caitlin in Kathryn Erskine’s Mockingbird says, “it helps to understand other people because then you can actually care about them sometimes” (Erskine 219). Middle grade fiction featuring neurodivergent experiences can serve as a window, help recreate what we think mental illness looks like, and inspire young readers to celebrate what makes them unique.
Supported by Story: The Importance of Neurodivergent Representation in Middle Grade Fiction
Zoom
Fear arises when we don’t understand. When we fear, we avoid, exclude, and create the ‘other’, who then feels that pain. In this paper I will explore the importance of neurodivergent representation in middle grade fiction and how these books can empower, encourage, and foster empathy and acceptance. Literature which creates an authentic narrative regarding mental health can help young readers feel less alone. Instead of feeling defeated by their differences, young readers can feel seen and step into their own truth. As individuals are supported by story, their own narrative begins to shift. Like the character of Caitlin in Kathryn Erskine’s Mockingbird says, “it helps to understand other people because then you can actually care about them sometimes” (Erskine 219). Middle grade fiction featuring neurodivergent experiences can serve as a window, help recreate what we think mental illness looks like, and inspire young readers to celebrate what makes them unique.
Comments
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