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Dwarf: A Memoir
“It's okay with me if you picked up this book because you're curious about what it's like to live with dwarfism. But I hope that you'll take away much more—about adapting to the world when it won't adapt to you.”—from Dwarf
A memoir of grit and transformation for anyone who has been told something was impossible and then went on to do it anyway.
Tiffanie DiDonato was born with dwarfism. Her limbs were so short that she was not able to reach her own ears. She was also born with a serious case of optimism. She decided to undergo a series of painful bone-lengthening surgeries that gave her an unprecedented 14 inches of height—and the independence she never thought she’d have.
After her surgeries, Tiffanie was able to learn to drive, to live in the dorms during college, and to lead a normal life. She even made time to volunteer, writing to troops stationed abroad, and one of those Marine pen pals ultimately became her husband.
Dwarf is a moving and, at times, funny testament to the power of sheer determination, and has been compared to Andrew Solomon's Far From the Tree .
Watch her Good Morning America
A memoir of grit and transformation for anyone who has been told something was impossible and then went on to do it anyway.
Tiffanie DiDonato was born with dwarfism. Her limbs were so short that she was not able to reach her own ears. She was also born with a serious case of optimism. She decided to undergo a series of painful bone-lengthening surgeries that gave her an unprecedented 14 inches of height—and the independence she never thought she’d have.
After her surgeries, Tiffanie was able to learn to drive, to live in the dorms during college, and to lead a normal life. She even made time to volunteer, writing to troops stationed abroad, and one of those Marine pen pals ultimately became her husband.
Dwarf is a moving and, at times, funny testament to the power of sheer determination, and has been compared to Andrew Solomon's Far From the Tree .
Watch her Good Morning America
250 pages, Paperback
First published November 27, 2012
11 people are currently reading
1265 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
November 2, 2016
Other reviewers have marked this book down because it is not of literary genius and concentrates on the author's feelings and motivations calling her a 'narcissist' (she's very far from being that). I don't know what they were expecting, a jolly book from a happy little person probably. Not the dark side, the disabled side, the feeling-excluded side, the side that says 'I don't want to be accepted as 'other', I want to be one of you all. I want to belong and do what you all take for granted.'
There is a movement in the US that says that dwarfs are not disabled but have a different body type and that children born with it should celebrate it and never think of changing it. This movement feels that the worst of all possible things for a family with a child born with dwarfism is to consider bone-lengthening surgery so that they could approach normal height.
This book is about a woman who bucked that trend in her desire for independence. From the earliest times felt disabled and was willing to go through years of pain in order to reach 4'10" instead of being only 3'8" with arms to short to enable her to reach her own ears. I understood Tiffanie. She wanted to be able to do her own hair, to reach things in cupboards, to wear adult clothes and to drive a car. This book is about her journey through immense pain to a normal, if short, stature.
This is what bone-lengthening involves. The bones, arm or leg or sawed through, broken, metal screws that pierce the bones and protrude through the skin are inserted. Every day the screws are turned a tiny bit and bone grows within that gap. Several times a day the screws have to be cleaned of the skin that would adhere and grow on them. Both of these procedures are extremely agonising. She lived on drugs and broken sleep and kept up with her school work at home despite the constant pain she was in. She had the procedure twice. How brave.
Although the text scarcely mentions it and the pictures aren't exactly enlightening, I don't know, like her father, if it was the right thing. She gave up her mobility for stature. As a child before the bone-lengthening procedures she could run, now she uses crutches and a wheelchair. Part of this was due to arthritis that was part of the problems of her particular kind of dwarfish. It was worsened by the limb-lengthening surgery. Was it a good trade-off? Tiffanie thinks so and it's her life.
An interesting book, worth the 5 stars because where else are you going to learn about life from a person with dwarfism who isn't following the official line we all see on tv with the various programmes of little people enjoying being dwarves and making light of their various medical problems and difficulties in a world that is too tall for them. Tiffanie discusses all these issues from three viewpoints, hers, her parents and the doctors. It was a good read.
There is a movement in the US that says that dwarfs are not disabled but have a different body type and that children born with it should celebrate it and never think of changing it. This movement feels that the worst of all possible things for a family with a child born with dwarfism is to consider bone-lengthening surgery so that they could approach normal height.
This book is about a woman who bucked that trend in her desire for independence. From the earliest times felt disabled and was willing to go through years of pain in order to reach 4'10" instead of being only 3'8" with arms to short to enable her to reach her own ears. I understood Tiffanie. She wanted to be able to do her own hair, to reach things in cupboards, to wear adult clothes and to drive a car. This book is about her journey through immense pain to a normal, if short, stature.
This is what bone-lengthening involves. The bones, arm or leg or sawed through, broken, metal screws that pierce the bones and protrude through the skin are inserted. Every day the screws are turned a tiny bit and bone grows within that gap. Several times a day the screws have to be cleaned of the skin that would adhere and grow on them. Both of these procedures are extremely agonising. She lived on drugs and broken sleep and kept up with her school work at home despite the constant pain she was in. She had the procedure twice. How brave.
Although the text scarcely mentions it and the pictures aren't exactly enlightening, I don't know, like her father, if it was the right thing. She gave up her mobility for stature. As a child before the bone-lengthening procedures she could run, now she uses crutches and a wheelchair. Part of this was due to arthritis that was part of the problems of her particular kind of dwarfish. It was worsened by the limb-lengthening surgery. Was it a good trade-off? Tiffanie thinks so and it's her life.
An interesting book, worth the 5 stars because where else are you going to learn about life from a person with dwarfism who isn't following the official line we all see on tv with the various programmes of little people enjoying being dwarves and making light of their various medical problems and difficulties in a world that is too tall for them. Tiffanie discusses all these issues from three viewpoints, hers, her parents and the doctors. It was a good read.
January 1, 2013
I was so looking forward to reading this book since I'd first seen the cover and blurb on Edelweiss all those months ago. The cover looks quirky and fun, and just like DiDonato says at the beginning of the blurb, I really wanted to know firsthand what it's like to live with dwarfism. Sadly, the book just didn't deliver on any of those counts. Instead, this is one woman's story about her own life up until her very early thirties. Still, it could have been compelling, except that I just did not care about Tiffanie DiDonato.
I actually came to actively dislike Tiffanie. If I hadn't been rushing to finish my yearly reading challenge, I probably would have abandoned this book. Tiffanie comes across as a childish, self-aggrandizing, spoiled brat who happens to have been born with a serious medical condition that made simple things, like brushing her own hair, impossible. Tiffanie was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to stretch (get it!?) the limits of the newest medical innovations for limb lengthening that were available to her in her childhood and teen years. Tiffanie got blowback from some of the dwarf community for her drastic body modification, but can you blame her for wanting to be self-sufficient? I can't.
What I can blame Tiffanie for is how she never mentions in this book the monetary costs of her operations. These are procedures that can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. I see two probable ways these were paid for: a) her parents, b) her insurance. If it was by her parents, then she does not even come close to giving them the huge thanks they deserve for what would be a huge sacrifice. Her parents come across as well-meaning and indulgent, but in their concern for her I think she became very spoiled. At one point, she gets into what she calls a "fender bender" on her drive back to college. When her sorority sister suggests she get her car fixed soon, she laughs it off and has her parents just buy her a new BMW Z3. Yes, seriously. Her sweet sixteen involves a limo ride to a fancy restaurant, as well as other flippantly offered shows that money is clearly not much of a concern of hers. Scenario b, the insurance, would mean that the cost of her surgery, surgery that many doctors would not have been willing to do, was passed on to the other insurance subscribers, raising the rates for everyone. But I'm sure Tiffanie deserves it.
Another reason she was so detestable? When ONE teacher mentioned her dwarfism, her parents tried to get that teacher fired. When that didn't work, Tiffanie set out with the internet to try to bring the teacher down with a computer virus, and spread her phone number around for awful phone calls. She never seems sorry for any of this, but is gleeful. Time to get over it, "Tiffie."
I gagged at the end when I came to the description of her fairytale wedding, complete with real trees her parents decorated at her insistence of it looking like an enchanted forest.
Yes, this book was a quick read, and I'm really glad for that, because I wouldn't want to spend another moment with Tiffanie.
I actually came to actively dislike Tiffanie. If I hadn't been rushing to finish my yearly reading challenge, I probably would have abandoned this book. Tiffanie comes across as a childish, self-aggrandizing, spoiled brat who happens to have been born with a serious medical condition that made simple things, like brushing her own hair, impossible. Tiffanie was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to stretch (get it!?) the limits of the newest medical innovations for limb lengthening that were available to her in her childhood and teen years. Tiffanie got blowback from some of the dwarf community for her drastic body modification, but can you blame her for wanting to be self-sufficient? I can't.
What I can blame Tiffanie for is how she never mentions in this book the monetary costs of her operations. These are procedures that can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. I see two probable ways these were paid for: a) her parents, b) her insurance. If it was by her parents, then she does not even come close to giving them the huge thanks they deserve for what would be a huge sacrifice. Her parents come across as well-meaning and indulgent, but in their concern for her I think she became very spoiled. At one point, she gets into what she calls a "fender bender" on her drive back to college. When her sorority sister suggests she get her car fixed soon, she laughs it off and has her parents just buy her a new BMW Z3. Yes, seriously. Her sweet sixteen involves a limo ride to a fancy restaurant, as well as other flippantly offered shows that money is clearly not much of a concern of hers. Scenario b, the insurance, would mean that the cost of her surgery, surgery that many doctors would not have been willing to do, was passed on to the other insurance subscribers, raising the rates for everyone. But I'm sure Tiffanie deserves it.
Another reason she was so detestable? When ONE teacher mentioned her dwarfism, her parents tried to get that teacher fired. When that didn't work, Tiffanie set out with the internet to try to bring the teacher down with a computer virus, and spread her phone number around for awful phone calls. She never seems sorry for any of this, but is gleeful. Time to get over it, "Tiffie."
I gagged at the end when I came to the description of her fairytale wedding, complete with real trees her parents decorated at her insistence of it looking like an enchanted forest.
Yes, this book was a quick read, and I'm really glad for that, because I wouldn't want to spend another moment with Tiffanie.
November 23, 2012
Tiffanie DiDonato writes a memoir of her struggle to overcome the diastrophic dysplasia, a form of dwarfism, that she was born with. She endures massive amounts of pain in order to add a few inches to her frame, which might not seem like a lot, or that it was worth it, but for her it was the difference between being able to live a normal life with independence, or having to forever rely on her parents or a caregiver to help her with simple things like making a cup of coffee, getting milk out of the refridgerator, or driving a car. Over and over again, I was struck by how much I take for granted in daily life that a shorter person is simply unable to do. Before she had her arms lengthened, Tiffanie was unable to even put her own hair in a ponytail! She is a remarkable young woman who absolutely deserves the happiness and independence she has struggled to achieve.
The writing style is casual and conversational, told in first-person recollections and includes some photos of Tiffanie during various parts of her life. It has a definite chronological order and is delightfully free of stylistic devices memoirists sometimes try to employ. Tiffanie bravely and straightforwardly tells us her story, and while I'd have liked some more detail in some areas, she definitely illuminates the important parts of her life with humor and cohesion. As a reader, I feel like I know her, like we could be friends.
The writing style is casual and conversational, told in first-person recollections and includes some photos of Tiffanie during various parts of her life. It has a definite chronological order and is delightfully free of stylistic devices memoirists sometimes try to employ. Tiffanie bravely and straightforwardly tells us her story, and while I'd have liked some more detail in some areas, she definitely illuminates the important parts of her life with humor and cohesion. As a reader, I feel like I know her, like we could be friends.
March 20, 2013
This is the flat out, honest and intimate story of the life of a woman. She is a warrior in her own right, and it kept me glued to the pages from the moment I opened the covers of the book,
Very shortly after her birth, her parents were informed, coldly and with no information that their newborn daughter suffered from a form of Dwarfism called Diastrophic Displasia. Her parents learned that is form of dwarfism causes a malformation of the joints, and cartilage. From the very earliest days surgery became a part of her life. First her feet and her joints, to enable her to stand. Later, elective surgeries that would lengthen the bones in her legs and arms.
As a very young child, she was of course, not aware of her differences. She was with small children and was small herself. She was very good about learning to find ways to assist herself rather than always asking her parents for help. This was necessary because she was not only small, but her legs, and her arms were smaller than those of a typical child. Tong,s pencils and other household objects enabled her to do many things she would not be able to accomplish otherwise.
Then, something happened on day.. that sent her mother, who by then had gone to school to study nursing, to seek out other and better ways to help her daughter. They found a doctor who could help. The fact that the painful surgery to lengthen her bones to make her legs and eventually her arms a bit longer was explained to little Tiffie and she made the choice to go ahead with it. She did this with the absolute support and untiring help of her mother.
While the surgeries were indeed just as painful and the recovery as difficult as had been described, Tiffany thought it had been worth it. When once again an event in her life caused her to seek out further medical intervention and yes... more surgery, more pain. By this time in her life she had a friend, Mike. He was her friend, her sounding board, her unfaulty door. He was there for her in as many ways as he could be.
Despite the fact that her original surgeon was not enthusiastic about further intervention, Tiffanie and her mom, the indomitable team sought out a way for Tiffanie to achieve her dream. This story is very honest and sometimes graphic in its descriptions of what she had to endure, first as a small child and then as an adolescent. It is an unflinching account of pain endured, humiliation and even isolation. But after her Dad, who at first was not as enthusiastic about her plans came on board, anything seemed possible.
So this is the story of a young woman with more strength, than most will ever have to find in themselves in a lifetime, never mind during the years of their childhood and adolescence. It is a story that will make the reader stop and thing before complaining about the hand life has dealt to them. It is an inspirational and despite everything, it is a story of optimism and achievement.
Read it.. you won't regret it. Recommended .
Very shortly after her birth, her parents were informed, coldly and with no information that their newborn daughter suffered from a form of Dwarfism called Diastrophic Displasia. Her parents learned that is form of dwarfism causes a malformation of the joints, and cartilage. From the very earliest days surgery became a part of her life. First her feet and her joints, to enable her to stand. Later, elective surgeries that would lengthen the bones in her legs and arms.
As a very young child, she was of course, not aware of her differences. She was with small children and was small herself. She was very good about learning to find ways to assist herself rather than always asking her parents for help. This was necessary because she was not only small, but her legs, and her arms were smaller than those of a typical child. Tong,s pencils and other household objects enabled her to do many things she would not be able to accomplish otherwise.
Then, something happened on day.. that sent her mother, who by then had gone to school to study nursing, to seek out other and better ways to help her daughter. They found a doctor who could help. The fact that the painful surgery to lengthen her bones to make her legs and eventually her arms a bit longer was explained to little Tiffie and she made the choice to go ahead with it. She did this with the absolute support and untiring help of her mother.
While the surgeries were indeed just as painful and the recovery as difficult as had been described, Tiffany thought it had been worth it. When once again an event in her life caused her to seek out further medical intervention and yes... more surgery, more pain. By this time in her life she had a friend, Mike. He was her friend, her sounding board, her unfaulty door. He was there for her in as many ways as he could be.
Despite the fact that her original surgeon was not enthusiastic about further intervention, Tiffanie and her mom, the indomitable team sought out a way for Tiffanie to achieve her dream. This story is very honest and sometimes graphic in its descriptions of what she had to endure, first as a small child and then as an adolescent. It is an unflinching account of pain endured, humiliation and even isolation. But after her Dad, who at first was not as enthusiastic about her plans came on board, anything seemed possible.
So this is the story of a young woman with more strength, than most will ever have to find in themselves in a lifetime, never mind during the years of their childhood and adolescence. It is a story that will make the reader stop and thing before complaining about the hand life has dealt to them. It is an inspirational and despite everything, it is a story of optimism and achievement.
Read it.. you won't regret it. Recommended .
February 14, 2013
This was very poorly written. The author is also very narcissistic; others in her life are drawn two-dimensionally. I felt no emotion from or towards her. I have no sense that she has aspirations or depth. I only finished the book because it was for book club and it is really too bad that she had no co. -author or better editing because this was likely much more harrowing and interesting than depicted.
December 4, 2012
Won on Goodreads Giveaways
The average person is probably unaware that Dwarfism is a catch-all term for over 100 different versions of the condition. At least, I certainly didn’t. Suffering from Diastrophic Dysplasia (short stature, joint deformations); 31 year old Tiffanie DiDonato looks back on her life in, “Dwarf: How One Woman Fought for a Body – And a Life- She Was Never Supposed to Have”.
“Dwarf” introduces Tiffanie’s story in a very approachable and friendly manner. DiDonato’s tone is casual and a far cry from stiff. However, the text is too simplified and lacks any literary language. Yes, the target is the general audience but “Dwarf” is too easy-to-read. This may be a reflection on the chronological aspect of the memoir; as the early childhood/memories are replayed in a childish tone which matures slightly as the book progresses. In my opinion, though, the story (even the childhood) can be told without sounding like a child.
Similarly, “Dwarf” lacked the passion and inspiration which the story could seemingly and naturally evoke. DiDonato does become feisty with some of the stories but overall, there is a lack of emotional attachment. The reader doesn’t truly experience the ups and downs of her condition. Although it is both great and amazing that DiDonato has accepted her condition; I still wanted some depth.
“Dwarf” follows a narrative style with a lot of dialogue. This “he said/she said” recollection is suspect unless DiDonato kept a strict journal (she does state that she began to write a memoir early in life). This style of writing helps “Dwarf” flow smoothly and makes the text easy to read.
The climax and second half of “Dwarf” focuses on DiDonato’s bone lengthening surgeries. Although these events were thoughtfully described; DiDonato still maintained some aloofness preventing the complexity and depth which this coverage could have brought to the memoir from trickling to the surface. Simply: something was missing. At the same time, DiDonato didn’t whine or moan or play the pity card when describing her life.
The concluding chapters of “Dwarf” brought annoyance as it almost seemed that DiDonato didn’t have much to write about so she focused on shallow topics like getting her first car (a BMW!), joining a sorority/partying, and meeting her future husband. Size and stature doesn’t limit the ability to be a spoiled, rich girl. Sadly, this ended “Dwarf” on a surface level versus leaving a memorable impact.
“Dwarf” suffers from an interesting topic but encompassing poor execution. It wasn’t terrible and is readable; it is just too easy. I expected more: I expected to be moved, inspired, and brought to strong emotional tides. None of that happened. I also didn’t gain a new knowledge of Dwarfism. “Dwarf” is suggested for a quick read but it will not change your life.
The average person is probably unaware that Dwarfism is a catch-all term for over 100 different versions of the condition. At least, I certainly didn’t. Suffering from Diastrophic Dysplasia (short stature, joint deformations); 31 year old Tiffanie DiDonato looks back on her life in, “Dwarf: How One Woman Fought for a Body – And a Life- She Was Never Supposed to Have”.
“Dwarf” introduces Tiffanie’s story in a very approachable and friendly manner. DiDonato’s tone is casual and a far cry from stiff. However, the text is too simplified and lacks any literary language. Yes, the target is the general audience but “Dwarf” is too easy-to-read. This may be a reflection on the chronological aspect of the memoir; as the early childhood/memories are replayed in a childish tone which matures slightly as the book progresses. In my opinion, though, the story (even the childhood) can be told without sounding like a child.
Similarly, “Dwarf” lacked the passion and inspiration which the story could seemingly and naturally evoke. DiDonato does become feisty with some of the stories but overall, there is a lack of emotional attachment. The reader doesn’t truly experience the ups and downs of her condition. Although it is both great and amazing that DiDonato has accepted her condition; I still wanted some depth.
“Dwarf” follows a narrative style with a lot of dialogue. This “he said/she said” recollection is suspect unless DiDonato kept a strict journal (she does state that she began to write a memoir early in life). This style of writing helps “Dwarf” flow smoothly and makes the text easy to read.
The climax and second half of “Dwarf” focuses on DiDonato’s bone lengthening surgeries. Although these events were thoughtfully described; DiDonato still maintained some aloofness preventing the complexity and depth which this coverage could have brought to the memoir from trickling to the surface. Simply: something was missing. At the same time, DiDonato didn’t whine or moan or play the pity card when describing her life.
The concluding chapters of “Dwarf” brought annoyance as it almost seemed that DiDonato didn’t have much to write about so she focused on shallow topics like getting her first car (a BMW!), joining a sorority/partying, and meeting her future husband. Size and stature doesn’t limit the ability to be a spoiled, rich girl. Sadly, this ended “Dwarf” on a surface level versus leaving a memorable impact.
“Dwarf” suffers from an interesting topic but encompassing poor execution. It wasn’t terrible and is readable; it is just too easy. I expected more: I expected to be moved, inspired, and brought to strong emotional tides. None of that happened. I also didn’t gain a new knowledge of Dwarfism. “Dwarf” is suggested for a quick read but it will not change your life.
December 30, 2012
It was....OK. I picked it up because I like medical memoirs since I have my own medical issues. But I didn't like the attitudes of her or her mom. I can't imagine my parents not agreeing on a treatment plan for me, and then going ahead and doing what ONE wanted, versus the other. Taking care of a kid with medical issues is an all for one and one for all deal.
I also don't know how I felt about her additional surgeries. For me, additional surgeries can't "cure" my problem. They can help, but I'm always going to have medical issues. The idea that we can "overcome" these to do whatever we want bothers me. That's not true. There are definitely things I can't do: I'll never be able to Climb Everest, or go deep-sea diving. My doctors would have a fit. The idea that anyone can do anything is inane. That's not true even for normal bodied folk; not everyone who wants to be a Yankee is going to be one, obviously.
She also seemed to have a lot of problems with accepting herself and there were definitely some passages that were whiny. So while I always enjoy reading about medical things, I found the overall tone to be a bit grating.
I also don't know how I felt about her additional surgeries. For me, additional surgeries can't "cure" my problem. They can help, but I'm always going to have medical issues. The idea that we can "overcome" these to do whatever we want bothers me. That's not true. There are definitely things I can't do: I'll never be able to Climb Everest, or go deep-sea diving. My doctors would have a fit. The idea that anyone can do anything is inane. That's not true even for normal bodied folk; not everyone who wants to be a Yankee is going to be one, obviously.
She also seemed to have a lot of problems with accepting herself and there were definitely some passages that were whiny. So while I always enjoy reading about medical things, I found the overall tone to be a bit grating.
January 30, 2014
A 3.5 rating, really. I almost gave it 4 stars but the writing itself was pretty blasé.
It's worth a read and tells a different side of a story, a controversial side. I have great respect for her choice and the strength it took for her to get through it.
But, I mean, the writing left a lot to be desired. And since she studied writing at Dartmouth and is currently a writer for a magazine, I'm surprised she hired a ghost writer and it *still* came out like a lazy high school essay.
It's worth a read and tells a different side of a story, a controversial side. I have great respect for her choice and the strength it took for her to get through it.
But, I mean, the writing left a lot to be desired. And since she studied writing at Dartmouth and is currently a writer for a magazine, I'm surprised she hired a ghost writer and it *still* came out like a lazy high school essay.
May 22, 2013
I do adore memoirs, and as an avid watcher of "Little People, Big World" and "The Little Couple," this was a perfect diversion.
Tiffanie has a rare form of dwarfism, and doesn't realize it herself for many years, until she's in school, because her parents never bring it up. She doesn't realize all the doctor's appointments, surgeries, and the tricks she has to do around the house for things like getting a cereal bowl and turning on light switches, are unusual until after she ends up stuck in the girls' bathroom at school with a doorknob too high and a door too heavy for her to navigate. Tiffanie's mother finds out about the new and controversial bone-lengthening operations and decides the improved quality of life is worth the pain and suffering, and so Tiffanie undergoes the surgery and spends months being tutored at home while periodically turning a screw that slowly but surely adds two inches to her lower legs, upper legs, and arms. As a teenager, she decides herself that she wants to do the surgeries a second time, but only if she can find a doctor who's willing to try for more than two inches at each of the sites.
Meanwhile, her parents divorce and get back together, she grows up, goes to school, gets a job at her grandfather's retirement home, and starts to correspond with a cute soldier overseas. The main point all the TV shows and books and speeches about Little People tries to convey is how ordinary their lives are, but that belies the very important fact that they just aren't. They're ordinary in the details, but in the aggregate, they're normal for someone with a medium-scale handicap, and that's just a fact. I appreciated very much that Tiffanie didn't shy away from this at all. As she describes going through excruciating pain in the effort to live a more normal life, she doesn't deny that it's not normal that as a child she couldn't reach her own ears or see over a countertop, and even as a teen she struggled with things like reaching the pedals of a car. Her father is refreshing in that he isn't one of those super-supportive "you can do anything!" parents; instead he is afraid, anxious, disagrees with the surgeries, and wants to follow Tiffanie around everywhere helping her out as much as possible so she won't have to do much. In college she found out that the nice person always shoveling her car out of the snow after a snowstorm was not the local custodian as she had suspected, but her Dad who drove a long way in the middle of the night to do it every single time.
The book ends with her falling in love and having a storybook wedding, but we kind of get away from the main topic in the first 7/8 of the book and we don't hear much about her now husband's reaction to her dwarfism after their first meeting, don't hear if it's going to cause problems in her pregnancy (other than raising the risk of her child having dwarfism), and if she finds today, after all her surgeries, that there are still things she can't do at 4'10". Instead, the book does become rather ordinary. Although of course it's terribly nice that Tiffanie meets a cute guy who sees beyond her issues and loves her for who she truly is and they live happily ever after.
The book was a quick read, very diverting, and I admire Tiffanie for meeting challenges head-on and doing what works best for her, no matter others' opinions.
Tiffanie has a rare form of dwarfism, and doesn't realize it herself for many years, until she's in school, because her parents never bring it up. She doesn't realize all the doctor's appointments, surgeries, and the tricks she has to do around the house for things like getting a cereal bowl and turning on light switches, are unusual until after she ends up stuck in the girls' bathroom at school with a doorknob too high and a door too heavy for her to navigate. Tiffanie's mother finds out about the new and controversial bone-lengthening operations and decides the improved quality of life is worth the pain and suffering, and so Tiffanie undergoes the surgery and spends months being tutored at home while periodically turning a screw that slowly but surely adds two inches to her lower legs, upper legs, and arms. As a teenager, she decides herself that she wants to do the surgeries a second time, but only if she can find a doctor who's willing to try for more than two inches at each of the sites.
Meanwhile, her parents divorce and get back together, she grows up, goes to school, gets a job at her grandfather's retirement home, and starts to correspond with a cute soldier overseas. The main point all the TV shows and books and speeches about Little People tries to convey is how ordinary their lives are, but that belies the very important fact that they just aren't. They're ordinary in the details, but in the aggregate, they're normal for someone with a medium-scale handicap, and that's just a fact. I appreciated very much that Tiffanie didn't shy away from this at all. As she describes going through excruciating pain in the effort to live a more normal life, she doesn't deny that it's not normal that as a child she couldn't reach her own ears or see over a countertop, and even as a teen she struggled with things like reaching the pedals of a car. Her father is refreshing in that he isn't one of those super-supportive "you can do anything!" parents; instead he is afraid, anxious, disagrees with the surgeries, and wants to follow Tiffanie around everywhere helping her out as much as possible so she won't have to do much. In college she found out that the nice person always shoveling her car out of the snow after a snowstorm was not the local custodian as she had suspected, but her Dad who drove a long way in the middle of the night to do it every single time.
The book ends with her falling in love and having a storybook wedding, but we kind of get away from the main topic in the first 7/8 of the book and we don't hear much about her now husband's reaction to her dwarfism after their first meeting, don't hear if it's going to cause problems in her pregnancy (other than raising the risk of her child having dwarfism), and if she finds today, after all her surgeries, that there are still things she can't do at 4'10". Instead, the book does become rather ordinary. Although of course it's terribly nice that Tiffanie meets a cute guy who sees beyond her issues and loves her for who she truly is and they live happily ever after.
The book was a quick read, very diverting, and I admire Tiffanie for meeting challenges head-on and doing what works best for her, no matter others' opinions.
November 21, 2014
This book is yet another shining example of why not all autobiographies are meant to be read just as not all life stories are meant to be shared. I do not, in any way, want to take away from what this woman went through with her disability, but I found myself disliking both her and her mother with a passionate intensity.
Probably my biggest beef with Tiffanie was the way she told her life story. It almost seemed like she wanted to over emphasize how horrible her life was before her radical, and arguably questionable, surgeries. Like she wants a pat on the back for being tough. Since I can't imagine what life would be like not being being able to reach light switches or doorknobs I can't judge her for the surgery. What I do judge, however, was the seemingly weird and twisted way she remembers certain events in her life. I just don't see how anyone would be able to properly remember life events from their childhood. She seems to read a lot into what happened to her as a child.
In all in all, I felt that Tiffanie and her mom both seem like hard people who are hell bent on controlling their little universes and snubbing anyone who gets in the way. I've got relatives like that and they are bitter and terrible people. I felt no empathy for her and was rather turned off with her life story.
Probably my biggest beef with Tiffanie was the way she told her life story. It almost seemed like she wanted to over emphasize how horrible her life was before her radical, and arguably questionable, surgeries. Like she wants a pat on the back for being tough. Since I can't imagine what life would be like not being being able to reach light switches or doorknobs I can't judge her for the surgery. What I do judge, however, was the seemingly weird and twisted way she remembers certain events in her life. I just don't see how anyone would be able to properly remember life events from their childhood. She seems to read a lot into what happened to her as a child.
In all in all, I felt that Tiffanie and her mom both seem like hard people who are hell bent on controlling their little universes and snubbing anyone who gets in the way. I've got relatives like that and they are bitter and terrible people. I felt no empathy for her and was rather turned off with her life story.
December 18, 2012
This is a remarkably inspiring tale of a woman's desire for independence and the lengths she was willing to go to gain it. I highly recommend this book, I rarely say this, but if I ever get the chance to meet this author it will be an honor.
April 3, 2013
I was interested in the author's life and the struggles she went through to become more independent, so in that sense this book was thought-provoking. However, this memoir is poorly written and the author comes across as unlikable.
December 21, 2012
Only one word needed to describe this book: shallow.
February 5, 2013
Perhaps if Tiffanie DiDonato didn't spend her energy not using the words "I can't" she would have realized she can't write. Fascinating topic helplessly drowned in shallowness.
August 4, 2013
I have just finished Tiffanie DiDonato's Book Dwarf a Memoir. I have to say how much I loved this book, and found a kindred spirit.
Through the difficult years of Tiffanie's surgery and lengthening; things were hard, life was hard. But, bravo to Tiff's mum to see that there is an opportunity to change Tiffanie's life for the better and she acted on it. You know, it is easy to say that this procedure sends waves through the dwarf community because of the perceived message that being small (or dwarf)is some thing you should not change, but to embrace. I think that rational stops when in your heart it is about making a better quality of life.
Being a dwarf myself; had this procedure been around when I was Tiffianie's age my parents may have opted it for me as well. Not for betterment, to deny who I am. But, as common practice to make my life easier and not so dependent on others. When I needed orthopedic surgery to make my life less painful, they didn't bat an eye. Even now doctors will give you the risk (of any orthopedic surgery) and you know that is the risk parents take for their children to make their life easier, or for the teen who knows that having independence in their future is achievable.
I have been friends with many dwarfs and their stature. Tiffanie has diastrophic dysplasia. I am 4'2" and I would most likely towered over her (before lengthening) If you can imagine this: At all times there has to be someone to assist in your every day situations or adaptive things like stools, grabbers, and personal items. Not that I am saying that to be a Diastrophic dwarf is incompatible to independent living, it is just a whole lot harder. But, if you could find another way to help you live better, I know I would go for it. (I am too old now!)
It is not about "being taller",or for the looks. It is about being able to carry a bag of groceries in your house (or in Tiffanie's case a bag of trash)
This surgery very well may become the new "norm" and people best be prepared for this. Tiffanie tells of the pain, the lonely times, the loss in such matter of fact and truthful ways. At one point I was moaning myself reading one of her defining moments.
The book is effective because it rings so true. It really doesn't soften the blows. I know how difficult things can be for parents; they do not want their kids to suffer but looking at the whole picture, Tiffanie's mom was very astute. If anyone thinks her mother didn't suffer right along with Tiffanie in those quiet alone times than you really cannot value the strength that comes with a journey like this.
If I were to pick one word about this book I would say it is an inside look at someone who is very brave. Becoming who you know you can be, is a noble but often difficult path.
You will cheer, even cry, and can I say blush too! This is all about life and the challenges, joy and sadness. It is a memoir of a woman who dreamed big. A woman not afraid to try and be determined to build the best life she could.
Tiffanie DiDonato is someone I admire. What a treat to read a memoir and realize that the writer is the hero of her own show. Entertaining yes, engaging yes, meaningful, yes. A book that will change you - Absolutely.
Ginny Sargent
New England
Through the difficult years of Tiffanie's surgery and lengthening; things were hard, life was hard. But, bravo to Tiff's mum to see that there is an opportunity to change Tiffanie's life for the better and she acted on it. You know, it is easy to say that this procedure sends waves through the dwarf community because of the perceived message that being small (or dwarf)is some thing you should not change, but to embrace. I think that rational stops when in your heart it is about making a better quality of life.
Being a dwarf myself; had this procedure been around when I was Tiffianie's age my parents may have opted it for me as well. Not for betterment, to deny who I am. But, as common practice to make my life easier and not so dependent on others. When I needed orthopedic surgery to make my life less painful, they didn't bat an eye. Even now doctors will give you the risk (of any orthopedic surgery) and you know that is the risk parents take for their children to make their life easier, or for the teen who knows that having independence in their future is achievable.
I have been friends with many dwarfs and their stature. Tiffanie has diastrophic dysplasia. I am 4'2" and I would most likely towered over her (before lengthening) If you can imagine this: At all times there has to be someone to assist in your every day situations or adaptive things like stools, grabbers, and personal items. Not that I am saying that to be a Diastrophic dwarf is incompatible to independent living, it is just a whole lot harder. But, if you could find another way to help you live better, I know I would go for it. (I am too old now!)
It is not about "being taller",or for the looks. It is about being able to carry a bag of groceries in your house (or in Tiffanie's case a bag of trash)
This surgery very well may become the new "norm" and people best be prepared for this. Tiffanie tells of the pain, the lonely times, the loss in such matter of fact and truthful ways. At one point I was moaning myself reading one of her defining moments.
The book is effective because it rings so true. It really doesn't soften the blows. I know how difficult things can be for parents; they do not want their kids to suffer but looking at the whole picture, Tiffanie's mom was very astute. If anyone thinks her mother didn't suffer right along with Tiffanie in those quiet alone times than you really cannot value the strength that comes with a journey like this.
If I were to pick one word about this book I would say it is an inside look at someone who is very brave. Becoming who you know you can be, is a noble but often difficult path.
You will cheer, even cry, and can I say blush too! This is all about life and the challenges, joy and sadness. It is a memoir of a woman who dreamed big. A woman not afraid to try and be determined to build the best life she could.
Tiffanie DiDonato is someone I admire. What a treat to read a memoir and realize that the writer is the hero of her own show. Entertaining yes, engaging yes, meaningful, yes. A book that will change you - Absolutely.
Ginny Sargent
New England
February 13, 2014
I found this book interesting, but also frustrating to read at the same time. I found myself feeling a lot of compassion for her father as the book went on. He seems to be the dog everyone likes to kick, and take for granted. I found her mother very harsh, unsympathetic, and at times horrifyingly caustic. I understand that facing the long term medical care needs of Tiffanie meant that a certain level of toughness was required, but her mother took things too far many times. It seemed that the mother and daughter were more of a family themselves and the father was just orbiting them like a sad, neglected little moon. Situation after Situation, I found myself just cringing at how he was blown off, shoved aside, ignored, belittled, and treated like an accessory. I realize he did not handle things well soon after his daughters birth, but it seems that he was to be punished for the rest of his entire life for this by his ex-wife ; despite bending over backwards to try and make up for this.
The fact that it took until she was getting married for Tiffanie to be encouraged or allowed to have some sort of relationship with her paternal grandparent and relatives was also very tragic. I've no idea what they may have said or done, but it appears her mother was ready to cut them off En Masse with no explanation . Some back story might have helped the reader understand exactly why this was her option. No back story makes it appear that, once again, her mother is quite cold hearted and selfish.
The writing was good, and I was glad that she shared her very intense experiences with the world. I hope she is a happy person in her new life as the parent of a small child and wife of a marine. I look forward to other works created by Ms. DiDonato. She is one tough cookie, for damn sure.
The fact that it took until she was getting married for Tiffanie to be encouraged or allowed to have some sort of relationship with her paternal grandparent and relatives was also very tragic. I've no idea what they may have said or done, but it appears her mother was ready to cut them off En Masse with no explanation . Some back story might have helped the reader understand exactly why this was her option. No back story makes it appear that, once again, her mother is quite cold hearted and selfish.
The writing was good, and I was glad that she shared her very intense experiences with the world. I hope she is a happy person in her new life as the parent of a small child and wife of a marine. I look forward to other works created by Ms. DiDonato. She is one tough cookie, for damn sure.
December 27, 2012
Ms. DiDonato was born with a form of dwarfism and underwent several bone lengthening surgeries in order to ultimately reach 4'10" in height (very short but still within the normal range of height for an adult woman). Although Ms. DiDonato's story was interesting, I couldn't really get into this book completely and ended up skimming sections. The medical component and the portion of the book that dealt with her life as a late adolescent and an adult were of interest to me but I wasn't as interested in the sections of the book that dealt with her childhood.
What I found bizarre was the hate mail she received after she went public about her surgeries. Apparently, there are people out there who truly believe that she was somehow going against the will of God by getting the surgeries done. According to these individuals, she should have just accepted the body she was given and dealt with being handicapped for life. Wow. I find that belief system very hard to understand. What if you have poor eyesight? Is it going against God to get Lasik? There were also a number of people with dwarfism who felt she betrayed them and the little people community in general. Although I don't agree with them, I can understand where those with dwarfism are coming from to some degree (I would guess the feeling is similar to those in the deaf community who are against cochlear implants). They are proud to be little people and feel as though getting bone lengthening surgery somehow implies that dwarfism is something to be cured. However, I believe that ultimately everyone has to make choices that are best for them personally. What someone else does to their body is no one else's business. The personal isn't always political.
What I found bizarre was the hate mail she received after she went public about her surgeries. Apparently, there are people out there who truly believe that she was somehow going against the will of God by getting the surgeries done. According to these individuals, she should have just accepted the body she was given and dealt with being handicapped for life. Wow. I find that belief system very hard to understand. What if you have poor eyesight? Is it going against God to get Lasik? There were also a number of people with dwarfism who felt she betrayed them and the little people community in general. Although I don't agree with them, I can understand where those with dwarfism are coming from to some degree (I would guess the feeling is similar to those in the deaf community who are against cochlear implants). They are proud to be little people and feel as though getting bone lengthening surgery somehow implies that dwarfism is something to be cured. However, I believe that ultimately everyone has to make choices that are best for them personally. What someone else does to their body is no one else's business. The personal isn't always political.
May 7, 2013
Tiffanie was born with diastrophic dysplasia, a form of dwarfism. At an early age, her height peaked at 3 feet, 8 inches. She couldn't reach the sink without a stool. She would never be able to reach the gas pedals of a car. She couldn't even touch her own ears. Tiffanie decided to undergo a series of bone lengthening surgeries to give her more height. She spent the majority of her adolescence recovering from operations, adjusting to her braces and crutches, and being aware of her distinct physical appearance. Was it worth it? Tiffanie is an incredibly positive person. She's dealt with bullies, people's obscene curiousity, and even those who disagreed about her altering her physique. But with encouragement from her mom and support from friends, Tiffanie is content with her decisions. And she even found true love, eventually marrying a US Marine, she befriended as a penpal. I admire Tiffanie's story and her strength and stamina. However, the writing in this book could have used some more power. I know she had a ghost writer, and I have my suspicions that too much of her raw emotion got edited out.
December 25, 2012
I read this book for fairly obvious reasons. While my daughter has gone through the limb lengthening process for different reasons, I certainly related to the process. I think Tiffanie did a fantastic job in writing this book - while the limb lengthening process was the means to the end, I think she did a great job explaining her life in between the surgeries. And I feel like for so many of the kids who go through this process, it's the years in between the surgeries that define their lives.
It always amazes me to hear people who criticize the limb lengthening process. Most of us don't know what it's like to adapt all day long. Even those who do, it's not up to you to judge what others do. I like how Tiffanie explained her challenges and what led up to her decisions.
I also liked hearing about her mom and her role in Tiffanie's surgeries and recoveries. It's a hard role to be in but it's nice to see how much it meant to Tiffanie.
The writing and flow of the book need some work but its a great story to read.
It always amazes me to hear people who criticize the limb lengthening process. Most of us don't know what it's like to adapt all day long. Even those who do, it's not up to you to judge what others do. I like how Tiffanie explained her challenges and what led up to her decisions.
I also liked hearing about her mom and her role in Tiffanie's surgeries and recoveries. It's a hard role to be in but it's nice to see how much it meant to Tiffanie.
The writing and flow of the book need some work but its a great story to read.
April 15, 2013
A happily-ever-after type of story. The tone of it really hit me the wrong way at times. I had a moment early in the book when I piece of throw-away dialogue caught my ear the wrong way and I literally stopped and said, "She did not say that." Not something you want in a memoir. Another element of the book -- not to give too much away -- a very traumatic event, and she spends one chapter on it and moves on. I, having had a similar event happen to me, wondered why she wasn't having a little bit more trouble coping with it that would have impacted her awesome life in her college sorority.
I guess what it comes down to is that there seemed to be a lot missing. Like her half-brother, he's mentioned a couple of times but is largely absent from the story. People just disappear. There is also no discussion about the financial costs of all her surgeries and tutors and so forth. It seems like her family is quite wealthy, there never seems to be any worry about how they are going to afford all her treatment.
I guess what it comes down to is that there seemed to be a lot missing. Like her half-brother, he's mentioned a couple of times but is largely absent from the story. People just disappear. There is also no discussion about the financial costs of all her surgeries and tutors and so forth. It seems like her family is quite wealthy, there never seems to be any worry about how they are going to afford all her treatment.
July 25, 2019
Poorly written autobiography that might have been a better read if the writing had not been so poor. The book lacked depth in certain areas that were very important and then went into too much detail in some areas that were not necessary. I do understand the desire to have a taller stature and I am compassionate and understand the problems "little people" face but I found this mother/daughter off putting the way they were presented. They came across as being very rude and self centered. I realize that this child suffered and I am not questioning that. Originally when I reviewed this book on Amazon and gave it one star the mother contacted me and ranted at me for giving her book such a low rating.
February 5, 2017
This heart-felt memoir contained so much more than I expected when I picked it up. The controversial topic of bone-extension surgery for a person with diastrophic dysplasia is presented in an appealing and poignant story about a plucky young woman who pursues her dream of independence with relentless courage. I have concerns about medical technology that enables people to bypass, or at least ease, the results of genetics. Should we accept what we're born with when we can do something about it? Tiffanie makes it clear this isn't about cosmetic surgery - this is about being able to touch her own ears, open doors, and wash her hands at a sink in a public restroom. Her story gave me a lot to think about.
January 8, 2013
I won this book on Goodreads giveaway
My daughter struggled with her height when she was younger; nothing as extreme as the author of this book but she struggled. At the age of 10 my daughter asked for growth hormone shots, and I was shocked that my child would inject herself with a needle to be taller.
It helped to get her a little taller, to me no big difference, but to my daughter it was a world of difference.
My point, I understand how this young lady felt. It also gave me some more understanding for my own daughter.
I passed this book on to her, she is now reading it.
My daughter struggled with her height when she was younger; nothing as extreme as the author of this book but she struggled. At the age of 10 my daughter asked for growth hormone shots, and I was shocked that my child would inject herself with a needle to be taller.
It helped to get her a little taller, to me no big difference, but to my daughter it was a world of difference.
My point, I understand how this young lady felt. It also gave me some more understanding for my own daughter.
I passed this book on to her, she is now reading it.
April 29, 2013
I saw there were several three star reviews, and I didn't go into this book with super high hopes, however I really did enjoy reading Tiffanie's story. She was born as a dwarf, and underwent several painful surgeries in order to what every day people do: reaching and turning doorknobs, even touching her ears. I really thought it was down to earth and well written. If I personally was born as she was, I might have done the same things, because if there is a procedure to correct a physical ailment, why not try to explore it and try to correct it?
April 14, 2016
By "I've read it" I mean I tried to read it and couldn't get through it, so I read the first couple of chapters and the end couple of chapters. I'm sure the author of this memoir has a wonderful story to tell, and I did flip through each chapter to look at the pictures, but I could not get past her writing style.
Her writing lacked a natural flow. I got the sense that she probably wrote good papers in school, but she didn't learn to edit and she never found a voice uniquely her own. It's too bad because I know the story is there, it just wasn't told well.
Her writing lacked a natural flow. I got the sense that she probably wrote good papers in school, but she didn't learn to edit and she never found a voice uniquely her own. It's too bad because I know the story is there, it just wasn't told well.
February 7, 2013
My 2 stars has nothing to do with the author's life, as it is quite phenomenal. It felt formulaic, and I didn't like how she (perhaps unintentionally) came across as a "little person" wanting to desperately check off the list of things that "normal people" do. I read it in under 48 hours so it's not like I lost significant time on this blog-like "book."
April 12, 2013
So poorly written. :(
March 23, 2019
While I don't necessary agree with Tiffanie's painful surgeries to give her height, I am not her and this is a still an amazingly written account of her life.
December 21, 2012
Taken from my blog at www.takemeawayreading.com
I first saw this book while perusing the local Barnes & Noble and was instantly drawn to it. There's often a lot of inspiration to be found in learning about how someone has overcome struggles in their lives. I didn't realize it, but the author was on Good Morning America in 2008 discussing her experiences. (Not sure how I missed it since I have been a GMA aficionado for years). But anyway, here is the video if you're interested.
Watch More News Videos at ABC | 2012 Presidential Election | Entertainment & Celebrity News
What is discussed in the video is the controversial bone lengthening procedures Tiffanie went through multiple times to add inches to her height. Her experiences with those surgeries were the meat of her memoir as she discusses why she chose that route, others' reactions, and how she endured it despite experiencing excruciating pain. This woman is brave, courageous, and independent -- that is for sure! While I completely relate to the desire for as much independence as possible, I could never have made the decisions she did medically because I would have been too terrified!
Now, her decisions also come with a high degree of skepticism and controversy because of a belief that she has rejected her dwarfism and sent the message that even very risky surgery is worth changing who she was born as. I can certainly understand this position as well, because the surgery comes with the risk of many complications and is not medically necessary, though I don't fault Tiffanie in her decision making either. I did find this memoir interesting, and I did find it inspirational, but I could also see where for some it might not be because it was about overcoming through drastic measures rather than learning to accept oneself just as is.
As for the writing itself, I did feel like certain parts seemed a little lengthy. In the first half of the book I also felt a couple messages became repetitive such as Tiffanie's never having realized that she was labeled a dwarf or that there was really anything different about her. I understood after the first couple examples. I also thought it delved in to the cheesy a couple times.
That being said, I also cried or became very teary eyed multiple times while reading this - once in public which I never do. One of the most powerful parts of this memoir were the relationships presented. Tiffanie's parents had starkly different reactions and responses to supporting their daughter. One side of the family completely rejected her, even, while the other supported her wholeheartedly. She talks a lot about a best friend she had throughout her adolescence who meant a lot to her. It was the dynamics of these interactions that I think got to me the most.
Dwarf was an interesting read about how one person dealt with their struggles, but it also has a lot of controversy surrounding it and will make you question your own beliefs.
I first saw this book while perusing the local Barnes & Noble and was instantly drawn to it. There's often a lot of inspiration to be found in learning about how someone has overcome struggles in their lives. I didn't realize it, but the author was on Good Morning America in 2008 discussing her experiences. (Not sure how I missed it since I have been a GMA aficionado for years). But anyway, here is the video if you're interested.
Watch More News Videos at ABC | 2012 Presidential Election | Entertainment & Celebrity News
What is discussed in the video is the controversial bone lengthening procedures Tiffanie went through multiple times to add inches to her height. Her experiences with those surgeries were the meat of her memoir as she discusses why she chose that route, others' reactions, and how she endured it despite experiencing excruciating pain. This woman is brave, courageous, and independent -- that is for sure! While I completely relate to the desire for as much independence as possible, I could never have made the decisions she did medically because I would have been too terrified!
Now, her decisions also come with a high degree of skepticism and controversy because of a belief that she has rejected her dwarfism and sent the message that even very risky surgery is worth changing who she was born as. I can certainly understand this position as well, because the surgery comes with the risk of many complications and is not medically necessary, though I don't fault Tiffanie in her decision making either. I did find this memoir interesting, and I did find it inspirational, but I could also see where for some it might not be because it was about overcoming through drastic measures rather than learning to accept oneself just as is.
As for the writing itself, I did feel like certain parts seemed a little lengthy. In the first half of the book I also felt a couple messages became repetitive such as Tiffanie's never having realized that she was labeled a dwarf or that there was really anything different about her. I understood after the first couple examples. I also thought it delved in to the cheesy a couple times.
That being said, I also cried or became very teary eyed multiple times while reading this - once in public which I never do. One of the most powerful parts of this memoir were the relationships presented. Tiffanie's parents had starkly different reactions and responses to supporting their daughter. One side of the family completely rejected her, even, while the other supported her wholeheartedly. She talks a lot about a best friend she had throughout her adolescence who meant a lot to her. It was the dynamics of these interactions that I think got to me the most.
Dwarf was an interesting read about how one person dealt with their struggles, but it also has a lot of controversy surrounding it and will make you question your own beliefs.
April 28, 2013
On May 3, 2013 by Dawn
I’ve always had a mild interest in dwarfism.
OK, that kinda sounds bad, let me explain.
When I was a kid, there was a kid a few years older than me. His name was Michael, and his mom and my mom were PTA friends. I’m honestly not sure when I realized Michael was different. To me he was just Michael, the older boy who could never be bothered to talk to us kids, but had an awesome skateboard. When I grew older it actually led to an uncomfortable confrontation once, as someone took offence at my looking a little too long at him on the subway. Horrified, I missed my stop and headed back into Brooklyn in order to explain to the furious gentleman that I wasn’t staring, just trying to figure out what Michael should look like as an adult, and wondering if it was him…
So when I stumbled across this book I definitely wanted to read it. Tiffanie DiDonato was born with a form of Dwarfism called Diastrophic Displasia. Short form, her arms and legs were too short and didn’t grow properly. It causes multiple joint problems and there is the arthritis from multiple surgeries as well. The heart of the story is in that Tiffanie and her family chose to try bone lengthening procedures: a choice that apparently is controversial among little people. Tiffanie makes the case for her choice here, having decided to take on the agonizing pain to help make her body fit the world over the difficulties involved in making the world accommodate her condition. I’m quite sure the debate will rage on regarding these procedures, personally I don’t see them as mutually exclusive with acceptance of what is, at it’s base, (aside from the medical complications) just a rare body type.
The author’s colloquial style is perfect for this memoir. By the end, I feel almost like i know this young lady, and you find yourself cheering for her when she suddenly realizes she can see herself in the bathroom mirror for the first time, and tearing up at her grandfather’s funeral. Heartwarming and real, Tiffanie’s story makes you stop and think, about both about the physicality of our bodies, and about the amount of pain one is willing to endure to reach one’s goals… even if that goal is to reach a light-switch unassisted.
I’ve always had a mild interest in dwarfism.
OK, that kinda sounds bad, let me explain.
When I was a kid, there was a kid a few years older than me. His name was Michael, and his mom and my mom were PTA friends. I’m honestly not sure when I realized Michael was different. To me he was just Michael, the older boy who could never be bothered to talk to us kids, but had an awesome skateboard. When I grew older it actually led to an uncomfortable confrontation once, as someone took offence at my looking a little too long at him on the subway. Horrified, I missed my stop and headed back into Brooklyn in order to explain to the furious gentleman that I wasn’t staring, just trying to figure out what Michael should look like as an adult, and wondering if it was him…
So when I stumbled across this book I definitely wanted to read it. Tiffanie DiDonato was born with a form of Dwarfism called Diastrophic Displasia. Short form, her arms and legs were too short and didn’t grow properly. It causes multiple joint problems and there is the arthritis from multiple surgeries as well. The heart of the story is in that Tiffanie and her family chose to try bone lengthening procedures: a choice that apparently is controversial among little people. Tiffanie makes the case for her choice here, having decided to take on the agonizing pain to help make her body fit the world over the difficulties involved in making the world accommodate her condition. I’m quite sure the debate will rage on regarding these procedures, personally I don’t see them as mutually exclusive with acceptance of what is, at it’s base, (aside from the medical complications) just a rare body type.
The author’s colloquial style is perfect for this memoir. By the end, I feel almost like i know this young lady, and you find yourself cheering for her when she suddenly realizes she can see herself in the bathroom mirror for the first time, and tearing up at her grandfather’s funeral. Heartwarming and real, Tiffanie’s story makes you stop and think, about both about the physicality of our bodies, and about the amount of pain one is willing to endure to reach one’s goals… even if that goal is to reach a light-switch unassisted.
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