Beyond Words - Reflections On Our Journey To Inclusion

Great book and wonderful words for anyone is dealing with child issues

A wonderful and inspiring story. A great read!

Beautifully Written

This book is a rich and engaging narrative whose words and message linger long after you have savored the last pages. Diane Linder writes honestly about the logistical and emotional challenges of navigating the educational system for her son with special needs, and how they arrive at a place where he thrives.

Beyond the book's obvious relevance to parents and educators of children with special needs, I think others of us can relate to this book in different ways. I particularly appreciate the author's sense of optimism, which I perceive not in a rose colored glasses sort of way, but one that is realistic and constructive. Also, I am touched by her warm reminiscence of friendship.

For parents of children with special needs, this story is powerful and
validating. For professionals on whom we rely to work with these children, it is required reading. And for the rest of us, Beyond Words is a beautifully written book that provides important insight and perspective, and invites us to reflect on how we are influenced, and the impact of our influence on others.

Heartwarming, Inspiring, and Motivational

What can one say about this incredible book? It speaks so splendidly for itself. Diane Linder describes her pain and perseverance. She displays her motherly love and great strength. She knows, as only a parent can, what her beautiful child is capable of and his hidden potential. Yet, she has to battle with so-called "professionals," who are ensconced in their own self-images, labels, and assessments that are not only stumbling blocks to little Benny's progress but, in truth, have no meaning. Diane finds the meaning, the purpose, and the right, trusting people. This is done with great sacrifice on the part of the whole family. Little Benny goes through the pain with his loved ones. They all never give up and victory is theirs - with more to come! God bless you, Diane, for writing your family's story. You are a great mother, and a great teacher. After reading this book, we have all learned about the art of living.

A Compelling, "Must Read!"

In Beyond Words, author Diane Linder draws her readers into the depths and beyond the limits of her son's world. In that insular microcosm, the extrinsic judgments of others - those without true insight and understanding - have no place. Yet, as he grows and develops at his own unique pace, Benny is beset by a relentless barrage of assessments and diagnoses which send his family into a tailspin. In his infancy, Benny's aptitudes are already inherently defined; but his brilliance is obscured by an inability to express himself verbally and interact socially. Universally recognized and acclaimed "professionals" label him as disabled, and pigeonhole him into a myriad of misconceived categories. Only the intuition, diligent research, and love of his mother can extricate him from a cycle of entrapment which, potentially, will stifle his emotional, psychological, and educational advancement. In exquisite prose, Benny's mother chronicles their "journey to inclusion," borne of intense pain, sacrifice, probing and, ultimately, self-awareness and fulfillment. This book asks its readers to see the beauty of our world as a blended harmony of musical notes which make up the Great Symphony. Anyone who reads - and _listens_ never will be the same again. Thank you, Diane, David, Benny, and Adam, for taking us with you - toward triumph. I'm awaiting the sequel!

A Book for All

This is a book that any prospective or any practicing teacher should read. This is a book that any parent whose child is in any way out of the mainstream should read. Diane Linder tells the story of her son's education, of the frustrations of dealing with an at times mindless bureaucracy, and of the joy in finding an understanding, inclusive school system and what that means for her child. She also tells the story of her frustrations, of the support she gets, and the reward for her perseverance. It is a compassionate story that begs each of us to reexamine how we relate to each other. I recommend it highly.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.