IEPs R4U and Me

2025 CBC Librarian Favorites Winner!

Duke the Deaf Dog discovers the power of self-advocacy and embracing his unique learning journey through his IEP.

Meet Duke, a fun-loving second grader who loves to draw, play baseball, and explore the world around him. With his hearing aid, American Sign Language, and his trusty IEP, Duke navigates school in his own special way. Through his adventures, Duke learns that his IEP is a tool that helps him succeed and that asking for what he needs makes him strong.

In this heartwarming chapter book, Duke faces the ups and downs of school, friendships, and family life. Young readers will relate to Duke's struggles with teasing, his triumphs in learning, and his journey toward self-acceptance. Perfect for ages 6-10, this story celebrates the importance of self-advocacy, inclusion, and the joy of discovering how each of us learns best.

With easy-to-read text and engaging illustrations, this book is ideal for emerging readers eager to explore new perspectives, understand IEPs, and learn a bit of sign language.

Perfect for emerging readers, this engaging chapter book offers:

• Insightful lessons on IEPs and self-advocacy.
• Encourage understanding and empathy among young readers.
• Relatable school experiences: Address common classroom and social challenges faced by children.
• Fun and educational adventures: Inspire a love of learning and diversity.

Discover Duke's story today and inspire your students with his second-grade adventures!

Kelly Brakenhoff is the author of 15 books and a seasoned ASL interpreter. She splits her writing energy between two series: cozy mysteries set on a college campus and children's books featuring Duke the Deaf Dog.Parents, kids, and teachers love the children's books and activity guides because they introduce ASL and the Deaf community through fun, engaging stories. And if you enjoy a smart female sleuth, want to learn more about Deaf culture, or have ever lived in a place where livestock outnumber people, the Cassandra Sato Mystery series will have you connecting the dots faster than a group project coming together the night before it's due.A proud mom to four adults, head of the dog-snuggling department, and grandma to a growing brood of perfectly behaved grandkids, Kelly and her husband call Nebraska home.