I was so excited to get this book right when it was released but was generally disappointed in it. There were many VERY good stories that I absolutely loved, but overall there was something about it that lacked the really personal connection and everyday stories. I found myself skipping over stories and still never finished the book to the end. I have 2 kids with special needs one with Down syndrome and one currently undergoing testing for Autism, and I SO desperately wanted to Love this book.

I guess I expected it to be written from a Caregivers perspective (parents, grandparents, teachers, etc). When it seemed like more than half of the contributers have already had their stories published by Chicken Soup books or other big name publications, not just your average person. And I caught the names of 2 contributers in this book that each have 2 of their stories in this special needs edition. (many already published in MANY other Chicken soup books)

To me it almost feels like the creators of Chicken Soup sent out a staff email asking for any stories involving a person with special needs... I remember reading one story written about a typical person's high school days and her encounter with a girl with special needs and what she wishes she would have talked to her. Nothing about reaching out to her and building a friendship, even if years later. As a parent, I would have loved to read about how this person affected a persons life, not how she felt guilty about being afraid of a disabilty (that's exactly why I want to shelter my children)- Didn't leave a warm and fuzzy feeling. But I guess her article was accepted because her career happens to center on people with disabilites???
I know there are millions of people out there that could contribute more personally touching stories. I just wanted more "average people" doing great things stories. Just by compararing random biograpies of the stories I wanted more people like the contributor Chynna Tamara Laird- average mom advocating for her child. In the bio of contributer S. Thompson it states "she has had stories in 10 Chicken soup books" and her job is writing, not advocating for disabilities or living it first hand.

It does have some great stories, but I just couldn't relate to the book overall and I expected to not want to put it down. I felt like I would read 2 good stories then 2 stories that lacked connection.... SORRY... I really wish I could Love it.

I was so excited to receive this book. I read it cover to cover in 3 days. The stories are all very good. They help "connect" anyone who knows or cares for a child with "special needs". I would see little glimpses of my 8 year old son in different stories and if not the "same" I could relate to the situations and the emotions. On those really rough days, it helps to know that there are others out there that know just how you feel. It gives the inspiration to keep going. "Special Needs" kids definately are SPECIAL.........they help us to remember what is important. Thank you for this collection of stories.

A warm and genuine compilation of inspiring stories from those that have walked the walk...sure to bring a smile to anyone who has worked with children with disabilities, and a tear to those who are just starting on this journey.
The Bubel/Aiken Foundation receives a share of the proceeds from this book~what's not to like?

A wonderful book, often funny, always comforting in that I was reassured we WILL get through this (whatever the "this" is at any given moment!!) A great book for anyone who KNOWS someone with a special-needs child, to have a better understanding of where our time and energy can go.

This is an inspiring book that is really uplifting. It exposes us to the world of special needs through amazing stories.

I have always thought that parents and individials dealing with children with "special needs",must themselves be special.This book only reenforces that, in my opinion.

This book is filled with stories telling of the challenges and strength and the rewards that are realized on a daily basis, not only for those who are challenged but for those involved with them.

I have learned so much from this book . The people portrayed in this book are "truly special". I do admire them.

I have a special needs child and it is nice to know we are not alone on somethings and feelings. Four of my other friends bought the book too.

A worthy book for many reasons. A compendium of support, emotional and otherwise. Make sure to read "Swimming With John" by Michele Iallonardi, a pitch-perfect rendition of why good teachers for kids with autism are so vital.

The stories in this book really touch my heart and allow me to understand children with special needs.

All of the stories in this book are really, really touching and make me cry. They fill me with hope, strength, and lots of emotion! My husband can hardly put it down. This book is so very necessary and encouraging! Thank you, thank you, thank you a million times to the authors and all the contributors for all the effort you put into creating this book. It's really beautiful!

My book arrived last weekend, and I've been unable to put it down. Reading each story carefully, I've cried tears of happiness and sadness. The individual authors, and the book as a whole, really speaks to the joys and challenges presented by caring for a special needs child, whether it's in a medical setting, an educational setting, or just as a parent. I'm thrilled that this book was finally published, and I hope the labor of love continues across several more books!

This book enriched my energy to parent my children with special needs. By reading about other's families and educators challenges and triumphs, I realized how many people also celebrate the gifts from this wonderful population of people. I recommend this book to all people who want a fresh,new perspective on how to look at the bright side of life. When is the second helping of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Children with Special Needs going to be printed?

The book is so great, reading the stories about other kids with the same challenges as my daughter and her friends, has been a true blessing....it is comforting to 'meet' others whose lives have the same obstacles and trials and hear how they have come through it all, and to laugh with them and sometimes to cry with them as well...thank you for your talent and creation of this wonderful book (and website) that weaves us together in a design of mutual love for our kids, families, and friends. Lauri K.

Parenting a child with special needs is hard work, parenting any child is hard work. The stories in this book encourage me to continue, every day. All of these terrific stories give encouragement and hope to parents. Other readers will come away with a new appreciation of children with disabilities.Yes, I do have a story included, "Good Night Faith", about my 10 year old daughter with Down Syndrome. Sharing this story about Faith has been a wonderful opportunity to tell the world what a great kid she is.