What I've Been Reading

I finished reading My Body Politic: A Memoir by Simi Linton last night.  I've been savoring this book as I read it, each and every page of it, which is why it took me so long.  There's so much in it that speaks to me on both a personal and political level. I share her concerns about larger issues, such as the rights of the disabled. 

I also found myself nodding in agreement when she wrote about getting her first power chair - naming it (as did I) although she never named a manual wheelchair (neither have I).  She spoke about using buses and the reactions of drivers and other passengers. And, most importantly, she wrote about how using a power chair opened up her world and enriched it in so many ways. She even wrote about going to the Guggenheim in both a manual and a power chair! I can't wait to try the Guggenheim in the Beast now.

And Linton's writing about children with disabilities and education spoke to me because of my nephew. About the issues regarding special education, including the need for adult role models with disabilities  for children with disabilities. ( One little girl who used a wheelchair did not  believe that Linton was a professor because she used a wheelchair.) These very tough issues remain and have not been adequately addressed. So much she wrote, as an educator, is such valuable reading to those in the field and those who administrate educational institutions - or fund them. 

Everyone should read this book. I wish they would. It has so much to say about living. Living with  a disability, living in the same world with those who have disabilities, etc. You'll find the book at the link above and can still get it in time for Christmas from amazon.  And you'll find Simi Linton's blog , Disability Culture Watch, here.