My Favorite Books about Down syndrome

I read all the time. I read novels, memoirs, and -of course- books on the topic of Down syndrome. When Jaycee was born, I craved information. I wanted to know how to help her and what to expect. I also loved reading personal stories from mothers. It helped to know some of things I was thinking and feeling was normal. Reading books from Christian authors helped me understand how other people balanced their faith when they saw their child struggling. Reading is a good way to learn and help yourself sort out some thoughts.

Without further ado, here's my top 10 books related to Down syndrome in no particular order. Most or all of these are available on Amazon.

On the subject of educational/developmental information:

Stars of Success: Understanding How Children With Down Syndrome Learn

Sep 1, 2003

by Susan J. Peoples and Bernell Fettig

Early Communication Skills for Children With Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals

Jan 1, 2003

by Libby Kumin

On the topic of siblings:

Fasten Your Seatbelt: A Crash Course on Down Syndrome for Brothers and Sisters

Mar 9, 2009

by Brian Skotko and Susan P. Levine

On the subject of parenting, accepting a diagnosis, and personal stories:

Gifts: Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives

May 15, 2007

by Kathryn Lynard Soper and Martha Sears

Road Map to Holland: How I Found My Way Through My Son's First Two Years With Down Syndrome

Apr 1, 2008

by Jennifer Graf Groneberg

The Year My Son and I Were Born: A Story of Down Syndrome, Motherhood, and Self-Discovery

Mar 3, 2009

by Kathryn Lynard Soper and Patricia E. Bauer

Reflections from Holland: A New Mother's Journey with Down Syndrome

Jul 19, 2014

by Dana Hemminger

My Emily

Mar 29, 2012

by Matt Patterson

A Special Mother is Born: Parents Share How God Called Them to the Extraordinary Vocation of Parenting a Special Needs Child

Oct 20, 2011

by Leticia Velasquez

Room 47: Down Syndrome - a new father's diary

Dec 19, 2012

by S. R. Taddei


There are many great books on the topic of Down syndrome. I haven't read them all, so if your favorite isn't here, then feel free to comment below. Happy reading!


This post is for Down syndrome Awareness Month where bloggers write for all 31 days of October for Trisomy 21. I am part of this 31 for 21 challenge. During the month of October, the NDSS asks that we celebrate people with Down syndrome and make others aware of abilities and accomplishments. Individuals with Down syndrome have abilities that need to be celebrated!