Books in Progress by Mae Shell
I've always loved the magic of picture books, but I haven't always found they represent my own experiences or that of my children. Picture books often assume all readers have the same type of social and emotional lives, or that they fit neatly into a gender binary. Those who don't are left out.
I have two goals in the stories I'm writing: First, make them fun and engaging with adventures and dilemmas that resonate, especially for neurodivergent readers. Second, leave the pronouns blank or use they/them so that any reader can identify with the characters.
Starr's
Wheelchair
Summer
When Starr's foot and ankle surgery is delayed because of the pandemic, they end up spending most of the summer in a wheelchair. How will Starr process their big feelings about this challenging time, and find a way to enjoy the season anyway?
Taylor is so excited to finally be at summer day camp! All week they practice for the talent show, and can't wait to show off singing their favorite song. But when stage fright strikes, Taylor discovers the power of community to overcome anxiety.
Taylor's
Talent
Show Surprise
