One of the more rampant stereotypes about people with Down syndrome is that they are always happy. Don’t ask why that sticks in the face of a screaming child with Down syndrome – even when someone actually sees my child in a rage, they have been known to comment (with a chuckle) about how “those” kids are “always so happy.” Incredulous, I’ve pointed at my daughter, her face turning purple and her tiny mouth pressed hard into a perfect wail of discontent, and the “always happy” commenter just laughs. Like her rage is just a quirky frame for her happiness.
When I saw the title of Kari’s book, “Not Always Happy,” I laughed. I knew right off the bat that I’d like it – even if I was totally judging it by the cover.
It’s a great read. It’s the story of her love for her husband (and their love of Whitman and movies!, and the birth of their family, through the adoption of their son, Thorin. Who has Down syndrome. And who – (drumroll please) is NOT always happy.
What I Liked About "Not Always Happy"
1. It’s entertaining
2. Kari writes in a super-approachable way
3. It’s funny
4. She uses a lot of movie references, and I love movies
5. She tells the no-fun sides of an IEP process in crystal-clear detail
6. It’s informative: I learned a lot about the adoption process through their story
Why You Should Read It
1. It’s a smooth, fun read
2. It stretches you, but not uncomfortably so
3. It will give you a better understanding of what the challenges that the educational system and our culture present with regard to raising a child with Down syndrome
4. It will make you laugh
5. You will also fall in love with their family
Read It!
Kari’s publisher is giving away a copy of this wonderful story to one reader here, anywhere in the world!
To enter, just leave a comment here, or answer this question: “is your child always happy?!”
Winner picked by random.org in a week.
Meriah Nichols is a career counselor. Solo mom to 3 (one with Down syndrome, one gifted 2E). Deaf, with C-PTSD and TBI, she’s also a gardening nerd who loves cats, Star Trek, and takes her coffee hot and black.
Leah Thompson
Sunday 25th of June 2017
Hahaha! I need this book too!
Sadie
Thursday 22nd of June 2017
I can't wait to read this book, and will buy a copy if I don't win it here :) And yes, my darling, sweet sprite of a daughter is always happy and trails rainbows wherever she goes!
Tara Barnes
Thursday 22nd of June 2017
Not always happy? No way! She might have Down Syndrome, but she's an almost-2-year-old. She smiles and laughs a whole bunch, but we get our fair share of frustrated smacks, scratches, stink eyes and crying too. Because, you know. She's a toddler!
Angie W
Thursday 22nd of June 2017
my son throws a fit when he does not get his way. It can be just a stopping in his tracks with a pout or be a full fledge throwing himself on wh ground with bad words. He is not always Happy!
Juliet
Wednesday 21st of June 2017
I'd love to win a copy of this book, my son is definitely not always happy, especially when he can't have ice cream every day! I really enjoy your blog, thank you for writing it.