INTRODUCTION
Mel Dimmit’s book ‘Special.’ is a wonderful resource for parents raising a child with a disability. The authors’ uncensored humour shines through and took my emotions on a ride from start to finish. Whilst reading this book, I found myself going from hysterical laughter to feeling sad and empathetic without flipping the page.
The author also took me on a ride across the world with her many interviews and anecdotes from parents raising a child with a disability. I got to hear not only from the author’s experience, but also parents from many backgrounds, ethnicities and cultures. From Bondi to Bangladesh, this book caters not only to all abilities, but to all cultures and ways of life.

WHY THIS BOOK IS SO SPECIAL (NO PUN INTENDED)
There are also great tips for parents, families and friends (yes, for those who have a friend raising a disabled child) how to cope on all fronts (mind, body and soul). Mel shares her own coping mechanisms and uses anecdotes/stories from other families that also share how they manage on a day-to-day. This is the great thing about this book; the author recognises it’s not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to raising a child with a disability!
Mel often refers the therapists working with her son (e.g., Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Speech and Language Therapist) as the ‘A-Team’. Having personally worked in many A-Teams in my career, I feel as though I’m a way better team player after reading this book!
WHO IS THIS BOOK SUITABLE FOR?
The Special Book is one that deserves to read by all. We all share this life with someone who has a friend or family member with a disability. The chances are, it’s someone close to you (1.3 billion people live with a disability according to the World Health Organisation, that’s 1 in 7).