Growing Up Disabled in Australia

Growing Up Disabled in Australia

SUMMER READING

This anthology of short stories, penned by a diverse community of more than forty talented, courageous writers, paints a picture of growing up in Australia with a disability. Each story of sheer literary prowess has illuminated my perspective on the definition of ‘disabled’ and what that looks (and feels) like for people living with impairments or chronic illnesses. 

As a writer, my joy is in listening to people’s stories and pouring them into appreciative minds and hearts. This led me to write for this very blog at Pathways to Care. Sharing stories is what brings people together, sharing stories creates community and understanding and empathy. It makes you feel less alone.

The editor Carly Findlay, introduces the anthology with “I hope this book can be a friend to people who need it because it’s the friend I needed when I was younger.” She goes on to say:

“This book will change history. It’s the first of its kind in Australia. And I hope it won’t be the last. Publishers, both literary and news – need to commit to publishing work by disabled people.”

SHARE YOUR STORY

We would like to invite submissions from anyone who would like to share their experience in ‘Growing up Disabled in Australia.’ The winning entries will be published on our website blog and shared on social media. We may not be a literary or news site, but our aim is to support the one in five Australians with a disability, they deserve to be represented in their own words.

Alternatively, if you would prefer me to ‘ghost' write your story on your behalf, or edit it for you please get in touch with us.

If you have a book or podcast recommendation, please tell us so we can share it.

I wholeheartedly recommend picking up a copy of ‘Growing up Disabled in Australia, edited by Carly Findlay; writer speaker and appearance activist. Learn more about Carly’s inspiring work on her Blog.

Growing Up Disabled in Australia is the fifth book in the highly acclaimed, bestselling Growing Up series. It includes interviews with prominent Australians such as Senator Jordon Steele-John and Paralympian Isis Holt, poetry and graphic art, as well as more than 40 original pieces by writers with a disability or chronic illness. Published February 2021 by Blackincbooks.com