Awesomely Emma: A Charley and Emma Story

K-Gr 3–Emma loves making art and has “limb differences” because she has no hands: “Her disability was part of who she was.” When Emma’s class visits the art museum, her excitement is dashed when she finds that there is no ramp, and her teacher must push her to the back entrance. Once inside, Emma happily enjoys the museum with her multiracial friends, and finds a favorite Matisse painting while dreaming of her own artwork in showcase someday. When Emma’s friend Charley decides to push Emma’s wheelchair and later help her out of it, Emma gets mad and blurts out her mantra, “No bodies are wrong. All bodies are right! We’re all different shapes, sizes and heights. My body works differently and I love being me! Because being ME is an awesome thing to be!” When a chagrined Charley questions Emma, she explains that not everyone can do everything—even without a disability—and that she will ask for help when needed. Clued in, Charley apologizes and Emma decides that one way he can help is by signing a letter she writes (using her feet) petitioning for a ramp to be built at the front entrance. The entire class signs it and the museum’s response promises change. Watercolor and ink drawings, a muted color palette, and plenty of white space depict the self-confident, side-loop-braided Emma and her smiling friends. The text is cheerful and friendly in tone.