"Different But The Same" introduces the reader to Noahland, a very real place where meals are received through a tummy tube, and leg braces, wheelchair and therapies are a part of life. But as you begin reading you discover a thoroughly likeable kid who enjoys doing the same things typical kids do, just in a different way. The book is a wonderful tool for parents and teachers to use when talking to children about those who are different from themselves due to disabilities.
Children and adults alike will discover "different doesn't mean less than! Written in rhyme, and letting the obvious speak for itself, the vibrant illustrations bring to life the everyday nuances between typical and disability daily living in an engaging and enjoyable way.
It is my hope that the reading of this book will result in casual as well as in-depth discussions about this topic. I hope it will alleviate the awkwardness and discomfort many children (and adults) feel when in the presence of a person with disabilities. I hope that parents and others with special needs kids in their lives will be encouraged as they see Noah and his mom focus less on the limitations of what they cannot do and more on the endless possibilities of what they CAN DO. And that can make a world of difference.
Phyllis Leyden-Alexander is an author, entrepreneur, and Noah's grandmother, whose life adventures are captured in the children's book series, "Adventures in Noahland." Noahland is a very real place where meals are received through a tummy tube, and wheelchair, leg braces, and therapies are a part of life. She writes to help reduce the discomfort some children and adults may feel around kids who are different from themselves due to disability. Phyllis brings passion (even rapping and singing country music!) along with first-hand experience to convey 'different doesn't mean less than' when speaking with school-age children, students with an early childhood education major, and educators. Her books have also been used by universities in developing lesson plans and strategies for general early education instruction. Association with Alabama's Special Camp for Children and Adults (Camp ASCCA), a nationally recognized Easter Seals camp, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI), a part of the National Park Service, help extend Phyllis' reach in bringing awareness to the history of disability.A NYC native, Phyllis now resides in Pittsburgh, PA with husband Louis. Together they share 5 children and six incredibly perfect grandchildren, of whom Noah is the youngest.
