Review of Sean Gold’s “The ABCs Of Disability”

Book cover of The ABC’s of Disabilities by Sean Gold – an off white background, colorful text, and illustrations of children and toys. 

By Emma Farley

The ABCs of Disabilities by Sean Gold is a children's book that expertly introduces young readers to the concepts of disability, accessibility, and inclusion. This beautifully illustrated ABC book stands out because of its engaging content and commitment to fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, making it a must-have for every classroom, library, and family collection.

From the beginning, Gold's compassionate writing shines through, making complex issues accessible and understandable for children and adults alike. Each letter of the alphabet is thoughtfully paired with a concept or aspect of disability, ranging from "Accessibility" and "Bathroom" to "Voice" and "Zzzzz." These entries provide an excellent foundation for discussions about the diverse experiences of disabled individuals.

Authentic Representation 

Gold, a young, black, gay author with a physical disability, brings an authentic and intersectional perspective to the book. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating disability, advocating for accessibility, and understanding that everyone deserves to feel included and valued. This approach not only educates young children about disabilities but also instills in them the values of fairness and respect.

Importance of Representation 

The existence of books like The ABCs of Disabilities in children's literature is crucial. Representation matters, and having a book that addresses disability positively and inclusively helps normalize these conversations from a young age. It provides disabled children with characters and scenarios they can relate to and non-disabled children with the tools to understand and support their peers. By fostering an environment of inclusion and respect, this book helps pave the way for a more equitable society.

Simplicity and Impact

Introducing disability to non-disabled children does not have to be complicated or difficult, and Gold's book is a testament to that. The simple yet profound explanations and relatable examples make it easy for children to grasp the importance of accessibility and inclusion. This approach demystifies disabilities and helps children understand that everyone deserves to be included and respected.

Additionally, The ABCs of Disabilities showcases how books can have a significant positive impact on disabled children. Seeing themselves represented in the books they read can be incredibly empowering for disabled children, fostering a sense of belonging and self-worth. Gold's book provides these children with relatable characters and stories, showing them that their experiences are valid and valued.

Final Thoughts

What sets The ABCs of Disabilities apart from other disability-related books in children's literature is its combination of simplicity and depth. While it is easy to read and understand, the book does not shy away from addressing real and important issues. Gold's personal experiences and insights add a layer of authenticity and credibility that is often missing in other works. Moreover, the vibrant illustrations by Anna and Daniel Clark complement the text perfectly, making each page a visual delight.

The ABCs of Disabilities by Sean Gold is a groundbreaking addition to children's literature. It successfully educates, inspires, and promotes understanding and empathy, making it an essential read for young learners and their families. This book is not just about teaching the alphabet; it is about fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding that will benefit all children as they grow and learn. 

About Author, Sean Gold

Sean Gold is a gay, black, and disabled author from St. Louis, Missouri. He also is a public speaker and advocate for the disability community who aims to “enlighten, inform, and support others”. From 2020 to 2023, Sean served as president of the disability-owned nonprofit Coalition for Truth in Independence and published his first book “Pure Love, Or Is It?” in 2021. Sean is the current Media Director at FestAbility and hosts his own YouTube podcast series Crippled by Culture. In addition, he is working towards a bachelor’s degree in English at the University of Missouri-St. Louis and serves as a board member of the Saint Louis Publishers Association. 

Watch the Full Interview

For a deeper insight into Sean Gold's motivations and experiences in writing The ABCs of Disabilities, check out our full video interview with Sean, conducted by DLC member Emma Farley, on the Diversability YouTube channel. In the interview, Sean discusses what inspired him to write the book, how his personal experiences influenced the narrative, and what messages he hopes readers will take away. It's a compelling conversation that adds even more depth to this remarkable book. Don't miss it!