Mia the Masterpiece: An Empowering Story About Inclusivity and Growing Up with Down Syndrome

PreS-Gr 1–A touching story that gives readers a glimpse of life from the perspective of someone with Down syndrome. Mia has Down syndrome, and that makes her different in some ways, but she is the same in many others. She likes surfing and sleepovers and says of her best friend Monroe, “We are different, but also alike.” When completing a self-portrait for her class, Mia draws what she feels like instead of what she looks like. Her friends don’t understand at first, but when they do, they like her drawing. Thompson’s illustrations, with bright colors and lots of action, add whimsy and fun to the story. Young readers will find this book delightful, especially if they also have Down syndrome. It can be both a mirror and a window to learn about how differences are what make people special. The writing is simplistic with short sentences, making it perfect for emerging readers, and Thompson’s pictures keep the eyes entertained with tons of detail, and even some sparkles! There’s an author’s note in the front and an illustrated Q&A in the back.