Library Thursdays: Grown Man Now

Retired special education teacher, academic, writer and mother, Jane B. Schultz has written a wonderful book, Grown Man Now, (in2wit:Kingsport, Tennesse, 2008) about her life and family, which includes her son, Billy, who has Down syndrome and was born in the 50s. The family lived in the South of the United States. Dr. Schulz describes the changes during the civil rights period, especially those in special education. She was a pioneer of inclusion and the book is an interesting look into the history of special education from both the professional view and the familial view. The book looks at the various jobs and living situations Billy had--from sheltered workshops to open employment, from group homes to independent living to living with family. Dr. Schultz's honest account of the challenges, problems, joys and benefits of life and in particular life with a family member with Down syndrome, covers the important concerns of all families of people with Down syndrome in a helpful, interesting way. It clearly demonstrates the ways our life directions can be affected by all family members and that everyone has a role in the world.

I highly recommend the book for readers who love family stories. The view into 50 years of a life of a man with Down syndrome is wonderful. Both Billy and his mother are inspiring.

Related links:

Grown Man Now website

Sharing with Dr. Jane B. Schulz Blog

Jane B. Schultz Video Interview Series

Onward Crispy Shoulders by Mary Hakkinen and Madonna in the Suitcase by Huberta Hellendoorn are other stories of family with adults with Down syndrome that may be of interest.

To borrow any of the books or anything else, just email or call us.