What do you think?
Rate this book
Real
My name is Charity. I am thirteen years old. Actually, thirteen years plus eighty-seven days. I love sour gummies and pepperoni pizza. That last part no one knows because I have not spoken a sentence since I was born. Each dawning day, I live in terror of my unpredictable body that no one understands.
Charity may have mad math skills and a near-perfect memory, but with a mouth that can’t speak and a body that jumps, rocks, and howls unpredictably, most people incorrectly assume she cannot learn. Charity’s brain works differently from most people’s because of her autism, but she’s still funny, determined, and kind. So why do people treat her like a disease or ignore her like she’s invisible?
When Charity’s parents enroll her in a public junior high school, she faces her greatest fears. Will kids make fun of her? Will her behavior get her kicked out? Will her million thoughts stay locked in her head forever? With the support of teachers and newfound friends, Charity will have to fight to be treated like a real student.
Inspired by a true story, Real speaks to all those who’ve ever felt they didn’t belong and reminds readers that all people are worthy of being included.
Charity may have mad math skills and a near-perfect memory, but with a mouth that can’t speak and a body that jumps, rocks, and howls unpredictably, most people incorrectly assume she cannot learn. Charity’s brain works differently from most people’s because of her autism, but she’s still funny, determined, and kind. So why do people treat her like a disease or ignore her like she’s invisible?
When Charity’s parents enroll her in a public junior high school, she faces her greatest fears. Will kids make fun of her? Will her behavior get her kicked out? Will her million thoughts stay locked in her head forever? With the support of teachers and newfound friends, Charity will have to fight to be treated like a real student.
Inspired by a true story, Real speaks to all those who’ve ever felt they didn’t belong and reminds readers that all people are worthy of being included.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published February 2, 2021
67 people are currently reading
3277 people want to read
About the author
Carol Cujec
3 books38 followersCarol Cujec is an educator and author. Her latest book, written with Peyton Goddard, is a middle-grade novel, called Real, which invites young readers into the world of a girl with nonspeaking autism. Peyton wants kids to understand autism not as a disability so much as a different way of experiencing the world. Real is a groundbreaking story that celebrates the magic that happens when we value and include all people.
Carol lives with her family in southern California and enjoys yoga, cooking, playing guitar with her daughter and, of course, hiding out with a good book.
Visit Carol's website: http://carolcujec.com
Find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolacujec
Follow her on Twitter: @Ccujec
Carol lives with her family in southern California and enjoys yoga, cooking, playing guitar with her daughter and, of course, hiding out with a good book.
Visit Carol's website: http://carolcujec.com
Find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolacujec
Follow her on Twitter: @Ccujec
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
January 19, 2021
Real is a book that I always wanted. Not to get too personal, but I am on the Spectrum with NLD (Nonverbal Learning Disorder). A therapist told me that it is like Autism and Aspergers (more on the Aspergers side) put together. Charity and I have variations of differences (i.e. experiences, characteristics. ) _ I was horrible at math (for example) _ I felt so connected to her. It is so wonderful to see a book bring representation and the authentic emotion of what it is like to feel different, an outsider, to others. The book itself is beautifully hopefully. I wish I had this book when I was younger, but I am so glad that people like Charity and Me could recognize themselves with such sensitivity and warmth. Plus, I feel like kids and families alike would get a better understanding on how people are different and that's perfectly okay. More than okay. As you could see, I really loved the book.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for this book for my Honest Review.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for this book for my Honest Review.
April 13, 2021
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an eArc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is out now! Buy it and give it some love ❤
»»———- ♡ ———-««
4 stars ⭐
The world needs more stories like this one, it really does. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had the displeasure of hearing the word “autistic” used as an insult. It’s such an outdated, ignorant and disgusting way to think that I feel embarrassed to know people like this. And not just that, people on the autism spectrum deserve to see themselves in stories just like everyone else, especially children and teens.
✦ ✧ ✦ ✧
Charity is a thirteen-year-old girl who is highly skilled at math and has a near-perfect memory. She likes gummy bears, pepperoni pizza and hates the pink clothes her mother insists on making her wear. But no one knows any of this because she has never spoken before.
After discovering the abuse she has been suffering at her special needs school, Charity’s parents decide enroll her in a public junior high school. However, Charity is afraid because she’s not sure how other kids will act towards her. Will they accept her and see her for who she is? Or will they make fun of her and continue to be blinded by their prejudice?
✦ ✧ ✦ ✧
Charity is a great main character. She’s not only kind, clever and determined, but also sarcastic and funny. I think it’s virtually impossible to not like her, especially because you can really empathise with what she’s going through. There are so many injustices that she has to deal with and the fact that she perseveres regardless is very admiring.
Her family and her school friends are a great support system. I loved that her parents are so understanding and encouraging. Her grandparents have such a heart of gold that they even made me miss mine. Charity’s friends and her educator are so caring and I was so happy to see her around people who didn’t need her to prove herself to accept her.
However, not everything is sunshine and rainbows. Charity’s old school “teacher”, if you can call her that, really irked me. She was such a horrible person that I just wanted to scream at her every time she was on page. The abuse that Charity and her other classmates had to endure at the hands of that woman is baffling. What truly makes it worse is that I know similar situations to this one exist all over the world and yet many times nothing is done to stop them in the cases that they are known.
Something else that got on my nerves is the ignorance of so many characters in this book, including people of Charity’s extended family. Although they end up changing their tune later in the story, their actions and words are still inexcusable in my opinion. I genuinely do not understand how they can talk in front of Charity like she isn't even there and call her the r-word. It’s such awful and downright cruel behaviour.
After reading one particular review (linked below), I feel that I should point out that there are some things that were almost a bit performative and unnecessarily put Charity and one of her friends on a pedestal. What I mean by this is that it is almost like this book is trying to say that disabled and neurodivergent individuals need to prove their worth somehow or should only be accepted if they can contribute to society in the same way neurotypical people do. I am sure this was not the authors’ intentions considering this a ownvoices novel, however this does not stop it from potentially perpetuating a harmful message.
I also didn’t like how easily some ableist characters were left off the hook. That definitely left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
Overall, Real is an amazing, poignant story that deserves all the hype it’s not receiving. I would recommend it to both younger and older readers and I hope it encourages people to expand their horizons and interact with others who can relate to Charity’s experiences.
✦ ✧ ✦ ✧
Own-voices reviews I have found (please comment if you have written one or know of any others):
5 stars - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
3 stars - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Release Date: 2nd February 2021
This book is out now! Buy it and give it some love ❤
»»———- ♡ ———-««
4 stars ⭐
The world needs more stories like this one, it really does. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had the displeasure of hearing the word “autistic” used as an insult. It’s such an outdated, ignorant and disgusting way to think that I feel embarrassed to know people like this. And not just that, people on the autism spectrum deserve to see themselves in stories just like everyone else, especially children and teens.
✦ ✧ ✦ ✧
Charity is a thirteen-year-old girl who is highly skilled at math and has a near-perfect memory. She likes gummy bears, pepperoni pizza and hates the pink clothes her mother insists on making her wear. But no one knows any of this because she has never spoken before.
After discovering the abuse she has been suffering at her special needs school, Charity’s parents decide enroll her in a public junior high school. However, Charity is afraid because she’s not sure how other kids will act towards her. Will they accept her and see her for who she is? Or will they make fun of her and continue to be blinded by their prejudice?
✦ ✧ ✦ ✧
Charity is a great main character. She’s not only kind, clever and determined, but also sarcastic and funny. I think it’s virtually impossible to not like her, especially because you can really empathise with what she’s going through. There are so many injustices that she has to deal with and the fact that she perseveres regardless is very admiring.
Her family and her school friends are a great support system. I loved that her parents are so understanding and encouraging. Her grandparents have such a heart of gold that they even made me miss mine. Charity’s friends and her educator are so caring and I was so happy to see her around people who didn’t need her to prove herself to accept her.
However, not everything is sunshine and rainbows. Charity’s old school “teacher”, if you can call her that, really irked me. She was such a horrible person that I just wanted to scream at her every time she was on page. The abuse that Charity and her other classmates had to endure at the hands of that woman is baffling. What truly makes it worse is that I know similar situations to this one exist all over the world and yet many times nothing is done to stop them in the cases that they are known.
Something else that got on my nerves is the ignorance of so many characters in this book, including people of Charity’s extended family. Although they end up changing their tune later in the story, their actions and words are still inexcusable in my opinion. I genuinely do not understand how they can talk in front of Charity like she isn't even there and call her the r-word. It’s such awful and downright cruel behaviour.
After reading one particular review (linked below), I feel that I should point out that there are some things that were almost a bit performative and unnecessarily put Charity and one of her friends on a pedestal. What I mean by this is that it is almost like this book is trying to say that disabled and neurodivergent individuals need to prove their worth somehow or should only be accepted if they can contribute to society in the same way neurotypical people do. I am sure this was not the authors’ intentions considering this a ownvoices novel, however this does not stop it from potentially perpetuating a harmful message.
I also didn’t like how easily some ableist characters were left off the hook. That definitely left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
Overall, Real is an amazing, poignant story that deserves all the hype it’s not receiving. I would recommend it to both younger and older readers and I hope it encourages people to expand their horizons and interact with others who can relate to Charity’s experiences.
✦ ✧ ✦ ✧
Own-voices reviews I have found (please comment if you have written one or know of any others):
5 stars - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
3 stars - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Release Date: 2nd February 2021
August 6, 2021
Please do yourself a favor and read this book! Drawing on the true experiences of one of the authors, Real follows a teen girl who is autistic, nonverbal, and often unable to control the movements of her body. Experts have assumed that she is severely mentally disabled, when in reality nothing could be farther from the truth. Eventually the use of assisted typing allows her to find her voice and show everyone who she is and what she is capable of.
This is a story that is both beautiful and heartbreaking, and will probably make you rethink your assumptions. The story is told from the perspective of Charity, a 13-year-old girl who has a lot of thoughts, feelings, and preferences but because she is unable to express them is often treated like a young child or a non-person. Her parents are wonderful- they advocate for her and never doubt her capability to learn. There are also some incredible professionals who become a part of her life at school and it has given me so much respect for what these teachers and aides do when they are good at their jobs. We do see the negative side as well. Charity spends some time at a "special" school where abuse is taking place, she faces bullying once she enters public school. But ultimately there are beautiful friendships and people who learn to think differently.
Looking at some other reviews I want to say a couple of things. First is that I think for a middle grade audience, especially kids on the younger side, this book is appropriately hopeful. It shows abusive behaviors and some consequences, but doesn't get super heavy with it and focuses more on the validity of the emotions Charity is feeling, and then how to move on in the best way possible. And honestly, I think that makes a lot of sense for the age demographic in question. I've also seen concern that this perpetuates the idea that disabled kids need to be able to learn at a high level in order to be valuable. I have to say that was not what I took away from the book. While the main character is certainly brilliant, she has friends who aren't and are yet shown as valuable and deserving of respect and the opportunity to learn however they are able in a safe and caring environment. Just my two cents, but I can see how people might read the book differently.
Overall I highly recommend this one. I received a copy from the publisher for review. All opinions are my own.
Content warnings include ableism, slurs, abuse, and depression, possibly suicidal ideation.
This is a story that is both beautiful and heartbreaking, and will probably make you rethink your assumptions. The story is told from the perspective of Charity, a 13-year-old girl who has a lot of thoughts, feelings, and preferences but because she is unable to express them is often treated like a young child or a non-person. Her parents are wonderful- they advocate for her and never doubt her capability to learn. There are also some incredible professionals who become a part of her life at school and it has given me so much respect for what these teachers and aides do when they are good at their jobs. We do see the negative side as well. Charity spends some time at a "special" school where abuse is taking place, she faces bullying once she enters public school. But ultimately there are beautiful friendships and people who learn to think differently.
Looking at some other reviews I want to say a couple of things. First is that I think for a middle grade audience, especially kids on the younger side, this book is appropriately hopeful. It shows abusive behaviors and some consequences, but doesn't get super heavy with it and focuses more on the validity of the emotions Charity is feeling, and then how to move on in the best way possible. And honestly, I think that makes a lot of sense for the age demographic in question. I've also seen concern that this perpetuates the idea that disabled kids need to be able to learn at a high level in order to be valuable. I have to say that was not what I took away from the book. While the main character is certainly brilliant, she has friends who aren't and are yet shown as valuable and deserving of respect and the opportunity to learn however they are able in a safe and caring environment. Just my two cents, but I can see how people might read the book differently.
Overall I highly recommend this one. I received a copy from the publisher for review. All opinions are my own.
Content warnings include ableism, slurs, abuse, and depression, possibly suicidal ideation.
January 26, 2021
An intimate portrait of a girl who has great intelligence, but is unable to communicate in conventional ways and struggles to control her body. The world labels her as unteachable. She is banished to a school for special students where Barney reruns are on repeat and a closet is used for "Time Out." Fortunately her parents are her advocates and decide to pursue a mainstream education for her. When she is taught how to use a keyboard to communicate, her world changes dramatically. It is almost too much to deal with. So many emotions and a desire to help others like herself. Then, the bullying begins. Carol Cujec does a masterful job taking us inside Charity's world with help from Peyton Goddard, a young woman who is the real life inspiration for this story. Simply astounding. Such a necessary book to read to remind us of those who cannot speak for themselves. Another noteworthy book that explores these themes is 'Planet Earth Is Blue' by Nicole Pantaleakos.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2020
* I got this EArc from Shadow Mountain Publishing and Netgalley in exhange for a honest review *
I AM INTELLIGENT
I shall be honest to say that at first, i was very VERY unsure i`d even like this book. It sounded interesting by the blurb, but i wasn`t sure it was something i`d like anyhow.After a the first chapter... Boy was i wrong, i was so moved it hurt. I felt so many emotions through the book, with Charity. I smiled, i cried, i felt an ache in my chest and stomach for the unfairness and how Charity struggled...but i also felt so much joy when she was heard and seen as a real person not as an object, a thing and a word i really really hate: retard. She grew, found her voice and found friends who supported her and loved her for who she was. I also adored how her parents never gave up on her, that was really beautiful.
I AM INTELLIGENT
I shall be honest to say that at first, i was very VERY unsure i`d even like this book. It sounded interesting by the blurb, but i wasn`t sure it was something i`d like anyhow.After a the first chapter... Boy was i wrong, i was so moved it hurt. I felt so many emotions through the book, with Charity. I smiled, i cried, i felt an ache in my chest and stomach for the unfairness and how Charity struggled...but i also felt so much joy when she was heard and seen as a real person not as an object, a thing and a word i really really hate: retard. She grew, found her voice and found friends who supported her and loved her for who she was. I also adored how her parents never gave up on her, that was really beautiful.
January 5, 2021
I absolutely LOVED Real. Based off of a true story, 13 year old Charity has autism. She’s nonverbal and it’s assumed she’s not intelligent. Underneath all of the behaviors and inability to communicate is a girl with a lot of thoughts, a lot of empathy, and a very smart girl. Spending her days at a school for those with special needs, Charity is ignored and abused. After a surprise visit by her mom, the horrors of that school were revealed. Charity is immediately pulled from the school and her parents fight like crazy to get her accepted into the public school. Thanks to a slew of champions by her side, Charity’s intelligence is unleashed. She slowly unravels from the box she was put in and it’s a learning experience for all.
This book was just beautiful. It served as a reminder to keep being a champion for these kids. It was a reminder that while we’ve come a long way in Special Education, we still have a ways to go. I think this is a book that everyone should read! It will be a perspective shift for all, and will act as a guide if you are unsure how to interact with someone who is nonverbal. I think every educator needs to read this book! It was eye opening and reinvigorated my passion for education. The insight into the Autistic mind is incredibly powerful. This book is a must read and one of my favorite reads of 2020! 5⭐️ My thanks to @shadowmountainpub for sending this review copy my way!
This book was just beautiful. It served as a reminder to keep being a champion for these kids. It was a reminder that while we’ve come a long way in Special Education, we still have a ways to go. I think this is a book that everyone should read! It will be a perspective shift for all, and will act as a guide if you are unsure how to interact with someone who is nonverbal. I think every educator needs to read this book! It was eye opening and reinvigorated my passion for education. The insight into the Autistic mind is incredibly powerful. This book is a must read and one of my favorite reads of 2020! 5⭐️ My thanks to @shadowmountainpub for sending this review copy my way!
March 30, 2021
5 STARS!! Real is probably one of my favorite books of the year so far! Charity, who is 13 years old, has a type of non-verbal Autism. Because of this, everyone assumes she is dumb and cannot learn... when actually she has a brilliant mind stuck inside an unpredictable body. When she finally is able to find her Voice, things begin to change. There are some very ugly people in this story, but Charity's parents and support system are wonderful!
This book is inspired by a true story. It's heart-warming, emotional, infuriating, and beautiful all rolled into one. It really made me feel all sorts of emotions. I think this book should be required reading for all middle schoolers, high schoolers, teachers, and even parents.
This book is inspired by a true story. It's heart-warming, emotional, infuriating, and beautiful all rolled into one. It really made me feel all sorts of emotions. I think this book should be required reading for all middle schoolers, high schoolers, teachers, and even parents.
March 26, 2021
I’m so glad I read this book with my daughters. They were hooked from the first chapter and I loved the way this book showed us a new perspective and gave us deeper understanding.
The book reminds me a little of Wonder, but it’s also different. Charity has Autism that prevents her from speaking and keeps her from fully controlling her body. But she has a great team of people who care about her. When she’d given the chance to go to a public school, she learns to type on a special keyboard, and the ability to communicate changes her life. She’s on a mission to be a voice for the voiceless, but at school, she finds some people who are set against her and some people who become her friends. I highly recommend this one for young readers and for older readers too.
Thanks to Netgalley, Shadow Mountain, and the authors for a complementary digital copy.
The book reminds me a little of Wonder, but it’s also different. Charity has Autism that prevents her from speaking and keeps her from fully controlling her body. But she has a great team of people who care about her. When she’d given the chance to go to a public school, she learns to type on a special keyboard, and the ability to communicate changes her life. She’s on a mission to be a voice for the voiceless, but at school, she finds some people who are set against her and some people who become her friends. I highly recommend this one for young readers and for older readers too.
Thanks to Netgalley, Shadow Mountain, and the authors for a complementary digital copy.
December 7, 2020
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and the publisher for an eARC of this book.
This book touched me so deeply. In a similar way that Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper is one of the most impactful books I've ever read, Real is the new title I will add to that list. The beauty of this story is that it is based on Peyton's life, who was nonverbal and unable to speak or control her body as a child. She went through experiences similar to that of Charity, the main character in the story, and suffered neglect and abuse at the school she attended. At the age of 22, her mom learned about supported typing, and Peyton was finally given the opportunity to use words to communicate. The extent of her intelligence was revealed, and she soaked up the education she was given, graduating as the valedictorian from college.
REAL is told from the perspective of Charity, a thirteen year old girl who is autistic and nonverbal. She is unable to control her body, which makes it difficult for all but her closest family members to understand how smart she is. She is enrolled in Borden Academy, a school that is supposed to support alternative learning, but has a secret and dark reality. Charity's behavioral changes prompt a surprise visit from her mom, who discovers the truth and immediately removes her from Borden. She advocates for Charity to attend a local public school, where Charity meets a wonderful, supportive team of individuals who teach her new skills and help her participate in regular classes. When one of Charity's team suggests they try supported typing, it's discovered that Charity is an intelligent girl with a gift for math. Charity make new friends, and impresses both the teachers and students with her thoughtful comments communicated through her device with the help of her aid. Unfortunately, not everyone is happy to have Charity included in their classes, and on the basketball team, and she faces bullying both online and in person. Charity is determined to speak up for those who do not have a voice, especially those individuals like her friend Isabella who is still at Borden, but she has many obstacles she must overcome to do it.
This story is not an easy one to read, but I believe some of the ones we most need to hear aren't. The voice is perfect for a middle grade audience, but the subject matter makes it an excellent book to discuss with an older audience as well. I think it's so important that students have an opportunity to understand the individuals or classmates in their schools with whom they are unable to communicate, and to see interactions through a perspective like Charity's. The publisher includes inclusion tips from the authors to help facilitate classroom discussions, and I would love to see this book shared as a read aloud.
I highly recommend this story, and hope that your compassion, empathy, and understanding are fueled by it the way mine were.
Recommended: 10-14 yrs
This book touched me so deeply. In a similar way that Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper is one of the most impactful books I've ever read, Real is the new title I will add to that list. The beauty of this story is that it is based on Peyton's life, who was nonverbal and unable to speak or control her body as a child. She went through experiences similar to that of Charity, the main character in the story, and suffered neglect and abuse at the school she attended. At the age of 22, her mom learned about supported typing, and Peyton was finally given the opportunity to use words to communicate. The extent of her intelligence was revealed, and she soaked up the education she was given, graduating as the valedictorian from college.
REAL is told from the perspective of Charity, a thirteen year old girl who is autistic and nonverbal. She is unable to control her body, which makes it difficult for all but her closest family members to understand how smart she is. She is enrolled in Borden Academy, a school that is supposed to support alternative learning, but has a secret and dark reality. Charity's behavioral changes prompt a surprise visit from her mom, who discovers the truth and immediately removes her from Borden. She advocates for Charity to attend a local public school, where Charity meets a wonderful, supportive team of individuals who teach her new skills and help her participate in regular classes. When one of Charity's team suggests they try supported typing, it's discovered that Charity is an intelligent girl with a gift for math. Charity make new friends, and impresses both the teachers and students with her thoughtful comments communicated through her device with the help of her aid. Unfortunately, not everyone is happy to have Charity included in their classes, and on the basketball team, and she faces bullying both online and in person. Charity is determined to speak up for those who do not have a voice, especially those individuals like her friend Isabella who is still at Borden, but she has many obstacles she must overcome to do it.
This story is not an easy one to read, but I believe some of the ones we most need to hear aren't. The voice is perfect for a middle grade audience, but the subject matter makes it an excellent book to discuss with an older audience as well. I think it's so important that students have an opportunity to understand the individuals or classmates in their schools with whom they are unable to communicate, and to see interactions through a perspective like Charity's. The publisher includes inclusion tips from the authors to help facilitate classroom discussions, and I would love to see this book shared as a read aloud.
I highly recommend this story, and hope that your compassion, empathy, and understanding are fueled by it the way mine were.
Recommended: 10-14 yrs
November 18, 2020
I dare you to read this book and not feel ALL the emotions. You will come away feeling empowered and wanting to change the world.
As a Special Educator, I latched onto this book and advocated for Charity the moment I read the title of the first chapter. I adored seeing into her brain. The writers helped us as readers feel how frustrating and hopeless it might be to not only not have a voice, but to have a body that doesn't always listen to our brain. We then see how that can cause different reactions that someone on the outside cannot understand. Not only does this teach about how we should treat those that are different than us, but gives us glimpses into different ways brains can process things.
I felt more outraged and bawled more than I ever have reading a book. It is raw, and this stuff is REAL. Of course, I was empowered and thrilled that her gentle and supportive Special Ed teacher plays such a critical role (good reminder for myself, an all people); but that her parents advocate just the same. It is not only an incredible and compelling story, but also gives you bonus life skills lessons of remembering we don't see anyones inner thoughts, so being patient, kind, and never throwing in the towel on "hopeless cases" can literally change someones life.
"Define equal: Equal does not mean that everyone gets the same. It means each person gets what they need."
As a Special Educator, I latched onto this book and advocated for Charity the moment I read the title of the first chapter. I adored seeing into her brain. The writers helped us as readers feel how frustrating and hopeless it might be to not only not have a voice, but to have a body that doesn't always listen to our brain. We then see how that can cause different reactions that someone on the outside cannot understand. Not only does this teach about how we should treat those that are different than us, but gives us glimpses into different ways brains can process things.
I felt more outraged and bawled more than I ever have reading a book. It is raw, and this stuff is REAL. Of course, I was empowered and thrilled that her gentle and supportive Special Ed teacher plays such a critical role (good reminder for myself, an all people); but that her parents advocate just the same. It is not only an incredible and compelling story, but also gives you bonus life skills lessons of remembering we don't see anyones inner thoughts, so being patient, kind, and never throwing in the towel on "hopeless cases" can literally change someones life.
"Define equal: Equal does not mean that everyone gets the same. It means each person gets what they need."
January 19, 2021
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing for the advanced copy in exhange for a honest review.
Thoughts and Themes: This is a review that I really wanted to sit on and not write immediately because I have mixed feelings about this book. I also didn’t want to much time to pass that I forgot my thoughts about the book or that my feelings would simmer down way too much.
First and foremost I did actually enjoy this book and couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know what would happen to Charity and also how the story would develop. I think this is a great middle grade story for disabled children to relate to, and for educators to read and gain a different perspective. I love that this story is an own voices story so that adds a lot of value to the narrative.
There are discussions that do need to take place around this book as you read and when you are done with it though. I do think that this is one of those that you can’t just read and put aside and not think about what you just read. There were several themes that I got from this book that so far I haven’t seen in other reviews so I am unsure if I read the book wrong. I also have yet to read a review from another autistic reader so that could be the reason the book wasn’t criticized
For me, one of the things that I kept settling on was the idea that this book perpetuates that as long as a disabled child could learn then they are valuable to society. Autism occurs on a spectrum and this book kind of made it seem like depending on where you are on the spectrum dictates what you deserve from society. I was really frustrated with the plot focusing on how everyone thought Charity was dumb but actually she’s the smartest person at that school. It felt like oh because of this now she’s valuable and we can take on other disabled kids if they are like Charity. It really is hard to put my thoughts surrounding this into words and I would love to flesh this out with other Autistic people to see what they took away from the book.
Something else that didn’t sit right with me was how easily the people who abuse Charity were left off the hook by others and also by Charity. I really didn’t like how they made it seem like Charity has to be full of grace and forgiveness for others because “oh they just don’t know any better.” I really would’ve liked to see her actually express the original thoughts she had towards people who were abusive and ableist towards her.
There are some scenes in this book that really feel like inspiration porn, such as the scene at the end of the story as well as the scene where they bring up Jaz as part of the court. These scenes felt like they were tokenizing the disabled students as well as saying “if they can do it so can you.” It was just so frustrating to see this happen and not have anyone comment on it. In the start of the story, Charity would comment about the ableist things that others were doing but that stopped happening once she was able to express herself through her keyboard.
Characters: This is the easy part of this review to write because there are so many characters in this book that are loveable. There are also plenty of characters in this story who I just didn’t like and still didn’t like at the end. I really love the group of friends that Charity has at her school and love how different they all are from each other. I liked that we get to see different disabilities through each of these characters. I also liked how we got to see Charity interact with neurotypical people as well in school and at home.
I really loved Charity’s parents and how her mother always adovated for her until she was able to speak for herself. I liked that they did have Charity’s mom take a step back once Charity could speak and she only helped her express herlsef rather than speak for her. I also loved how her dad was supportive of everything she wanted to do and just wanted to help her do all she could.
There are several characters who are ableist towards Charity and they change once she is able to speak. My opinion of these characters did not change even after they were accepting of Charity because it showed that she wasn’t important to them until she could contribute like they did. It showed that disabled peoples weren’t going to be allowed to participate in society or be accepted unless they were able to contribute in the same way that those without intellectual disabilities can.
Writing Style: This story is written in first person and is told through the main character’s perspective. I really enjoyed this style of writing because we got to see what Charity was thinking before she was able to speak. I liked that we were able to also see her thoughts that were not said out loud. I also really liked that her actions were included as well as the random animal facts that were going through her head. It was interesting to see her thought process throughout the whole story.
Thoughts and Themes: This is a review that I really wanted to sit on and not write immediately because I have mixed feelings about this book. I also didn’t want to much time to pass that I forgot my thoughts about the book or that my feelings would simmer down way too much.
First and foremost I did actually enjoy this book and couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know what would happen to Charity and also how the story would develop. I think this is a great middle grade story for disabled children to relate to, and for educators to read and gain a different perspective. I love that this story is an own voices story so that adds a lot of value to the narrative.
There are discussions that do need to take place around this book as you read and when you are done with it though. I do think that this is one of those that you can’t just read and put aside and not think about what you just read. There were several themes that I got from this book that so far I haven’t seen in other reviews so I am unsure if I read the book wrong. I also have yet to read a review from another autistic reader so that could be the reason the book wasn’t criticized
For me, one of the things that I kept settling on was the idea that this book perpetuates that as long as a disabled child could learn then they are valuable to society. Autism occurs on a spectrum and this book kind of made it seem like depending on where you are on the spectrum dictates what you deserve from society. I was really frustrated with the plot focusing on how everyone thought Charity was dumb but actually she’s the smartest person at that school. It felt like oh because of this now she’s valuable and we can take on other disabled kids if they are like Charity. It really is hard to put my thoughts surrounding this into words and I would love to flesh this out with other Autistic people to see what they took away from the book.
Something else that didn’t sit right with me was how easily the people who abuse Charity were left off the hook by others and also by Charity. I really didn’t like how they made it seem like Charity has to be full of grace and forgiveness for others because “oh they just don’t know any better.” I really would’ve liked to see her actually express the original thoughts she had towards people who were abusive and ableist towards her.
There are some scenes in this book that really feel like inspiration porn, such as the scene at the end of the story as well as the scene where they bring up Jaz as part of the court. These scenes felt like they were tokenizing the disabled students as well as saying “if they can do it so can you.” It was just so frustrating to see this happen and not have anyone comment on it. In the start of the story, Charity would comment about the ableist things that others were doing but that stopped happening once she was able to express herself through her keyboard.
Characters: This is the easy part of this review to write because there are so many characters in this book that are loveable. There are also plenty of characters in this story who I just didn’t like and still didn’t like at the end. I really love the group of friends that Charity has at her school and love how different they all are from each other. I liked that we get to see different disabilities through each of these characters. I also liked how we got to see Charity interact with neurotypical people as well in school and at home.
I really loved Charity’s parents and how her mother always adovated for her until she was able to speak for herself. I liked that they did have Charity’s mom take a step back once Charity could speak and she only helped her express herlsef rather than speak for her. I also loved how her dad was supportive of everything she wanted to do and just wanted to help her do all she could.
There are several characters who are ableist towards Charity and they change once she is able to speak. My opinion of these characters did not change even after they were accepting of Charity because it showed that she wasn’t important to them until she could contribute like they did. It showed that disabled peoples weren’t going to be allowed to participate in society or be accepted unless they were able to contribute in the same way that those without intellectual disabilities can.
Writing Style: This story is written in first person and is told through the main character’s perspective. I really enjoyed this style of writing because we got to see what Charity was thinking before she was able to speak. I liked that we were able to also see her thoughts that were not said out loud. I also really liked that her actions were included as well as the random animal facts that were going through her head. It was interesting to see her thought process throughout the whole story.
November 6, 2020
I’m not sure I’ll be able to write an actual review of this book without it turning into a gush fest. I loved everything about this book. It is SO good. I had a hard time putting it down. It does an amazing job of getting the reader into the head of a non-verbal autistic teenage girl and helps you really feel along with her. This is due to the fact that this is inspired by the life of one of the co-authors. It is both heart-wrenching and triumphant with a unique and distinct voice and a message of paramount importance. I will gladly recommend this to any and all.
November 6, 2020
Too sad but liberating!
*Review coming soon.
*Review coming soon.
December 3, 2020
This book totally as what the title are. Even though it was inspired by true story, the story been told and written beautifully.
I can feel what Charity have to go through. 😭😭. The story that the people , the community and her surrounding can’t accept or being harsh on how she is different from others. She never asked to be different . She wish people should learn to know a person like her . They should send love and treat her like other people that so called “perfect”.
Person like Charity also a human being . She is intelligent but people think that she is incapable.
I love this book. It gives awareness what is autism . How an autism person / child action or character or react . The book also share about parenting . I totally take note on how Charity parent really know how to calm down Charity whenever she’s done something that other people don’t understand.
I love the last afterword part :
“ She would like all readers to understand the value of friendship, especially for kids who are different. To have friends is the most important thing for all people. Without friends, a person cannot have fun. It is hard to live. There is no joy, just sadness. I have felt this, because I look different and I am labeled autistic. I cannot always control my body. It does not do what my mind tells it. My face cannot show my feelings. For most of my life, I had to speak through behaviors and most people misunderstood. I need help to do most things. But I can open my heart. Can you? “ . It shed me tears when read it . 😭
Seriously , if this book available in physical copy . I really wish the author could send to me as I want to hold this gem physically.
This story taught us to have knowledge about autism before judge . Please be kind to everyone even the person is different. Please treat people with love not hatred.
Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC . ❤️
I can feel what Charity have to go through. 😭😭. The story that the people , the community and her surrounding can’t accept or being harsh on how she is different from others. She never asked to be different . She wish people should learn to know a person like her . They should send love and treat her like other people that so called “perfect”.
Person like Charity also a human being . She is intelligent but people think that she is incapable.
I love this book. It gives awareness what is autism . How an autism person / child action or character or react . The book also share about parenting . I totally take note on how Charity parent really know how to calm down Charity whenever she’s done something that other people don’t understand.
I love the last afterword part :
“ She would like all readers to understand the value of friendship, especially for kids who are different. To have friends is the most important thing for all people. Without friends, a person cannot have fun. It is hard to live. There is no joy, just sadness. I have felt this, because I look different and I am labeled autistic. I cannot always control my body. It does not do what my mind tells it. My face cannot show my feelings. For most of my life, I had to speak through behaviors and most people misunderstood. I need help to do most things. But I can open my heart. Can you? “ . It shed me tears when read it . 😭
Seriously , if this book available in physical copy . I really wish the author could send to me as I want to hold this gem physically.
This story taught us to have knowledge about autism before judge . Please be kind to everyone even the person is different. Please treat people with love not hatred.
Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC . ❤️
April 16, 2021
Thank you NetGalley for provided me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Real follows 13 year old Charity. She's funny, intelligent, passionate, and kind, but no one knows what she wants to say since she has never spoken for. Treated differently than other kids her age because of her autism, Charity's parents, peers, and teachers just don't seem to be listening to her. It is not until her parents discover that she is being abused at her school that they enroll her in public school, where she finally starts to get the level of education that she's been wanting.
This book is heartfelt and heavy. Charity was such a wonderful main character, whose frustration and passion was so obvious and real. I really enjoyed her narration, so much so that I read this book in one sitting. I would say that Real is right in between middle grade and young adult since the main character is thirteen, but I do think this book would be suitable for any age group, child through adult.
The only complaint I have was that at some points the book was a bit...too inspiring. I doubt the author's intention was to convey that autistic people have to be unfathomably intelligent and achieve great things to establish their worth--and I really don't think that was the message of the story--but there were just so many huge scenes in this book and not enough of Charity just being a kid. There are reviews of this book from autistic reviewers that explain this perspective.
Other than that, Real was absolutely amazing. A book hasn't made me feel so much in so long, so I am thankful that I had the opportunity to read this.
Real follows 13 year old Charity. She's funny, intelligent, passionate, and kind, but no one knows what she wants to say since she has never spoken for. Treated differently than other kids her age because of her autism, Charity's parents, peers, and teachers just don't seem to be listening to her. It is not until her parents discover that she is being abused at her school that they enroll her in public school, where she finally starts to get the level of education that she's been wanting.
This book is heartfelt and heavy. Charity was such a wonderful main character, whose frustration and passion was so obvious and real. I really enjoyed her narration, so much so that I read this book in one sitting. I would say that Real is right in between middle grade and young adult since the main character is thirteen, but I do think this book would be suitable for any age group, child through adult.
The only complaint I have was that at some points the book was a bit...too inspiring. I doubt the author's intention was to convey that autistic people have to be unfathomably intelligent and achieve great things to establish their worth--and I really don't think that was the message of the story--but there were just so many huge scenes in this book and not enough of Charity just being a kid. There are reviews of this book from autistic reviewers that explain this perspective.
Other than that, Real was absolutely amazing. A book hasn't made me feel so much in so long, so I am thankful that I had the opportunity to read this.
February 2, 2021
I was fortunate enough to get an advance copy of this novel from Shadow Mountain Publishing and I’m so glad I did because this book is an absolute gem!!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
⚠️ minor spoilers ⚠️
Real is a #ownvoices novel inspired by a true story that follows thirteen-year-old Charity who has nonverbal autism. Charity spends most of her life without a voice, unable to communicate anything, whether it be as small as her breakfast preferences or as large as the abuse she faces at her specialized learning center for children with disabilities. She also lacks motor control, which causes frustration for her because of the divide between her brain and body. Charity longs to form relationships with her family and peers but feels ostracized by her differences (which cause people to think she lacks intelligence or comprehension).
Over the course of the story, Charity starts to find her voice, create a community of belonging, and seek justice for children like her who are pushed to the margins and taken advantage of.
Charity is such a bright and genuine presence who shines far beyond the page. The other characters were also a joy to get acquainted with. This narrative is both heart wrenching and heartwarming. I especially recommend it to educators and middle school students, but I believe it has the ability to touch all readers regardless of age or background.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
⚠️ minor spoilers ⚠️
Real is a #ownvoices novel inspired by a true story that follows thirteen-year-old Charity who has nonverbal autism. Charity spends most of her life without a voice, unable to communicate anything, whether it be as small as her breakfast preferences or as large as the abuse she faces at her specialized learning center for children with disabilities. She also lacks motor control, which causes frustration for her because of the divide between her brain and body. Charity longs to form relationships with her family and peers but feels ostracized by her differences (which cause people to think she lacks intelligence or comprehension).
Over the course of the story, Charity starts to find her voice, create a community of belonging, and seek justice for children like her who are pushed to the margins and taken advantage of.
Charity is such a bright and genuine presence who shines far beyond the page. The other characters were also a joy to get acquainted with. This narrative is both heart wrenching and heartwarming. I especially recommend it to educators and middle school students, but I believe it has the ability to touch all readers regardless of age or background.
January 22, 2021
A very emotional book about a young girl with nonverbal autism. Inspired by the life of coauthor Peyton Goddard, it briefly touches on the abuse and mistreatment Charity, the main character, received while attending a specialized school. When her parents realize what is happening, they pull her from that school and place her in a public junior high school.
This book follows Charity as she receives a real education for the first time, discovers a way to communicate, and handles bullying both online and in person.
I was very invested in Charity's journey during my reading. My heart broke for her and rejoiced with her.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing for providing me with a review copy!
This book follows Charity as she receives a real education for the first time, discovers a way to communicate, and handles bullying both online and in person.
I was very invested in Charity's journey during my reading. My heart broke for her and rejoiced with her.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing for providing me with a review copy!
October 24, 2020
⭐️Every teacher needs to read this book!
⭐️Every middle schooler and high schooler needs to read this book!
Real is inspired by a true story. Charity is autistic and nonverbal. Although she does not speak, she is intelligent, observant, and desires connections. I loved the opportunity to understand better what a child with Autism is thinking and feeling. Middle schoolers could gain a depth of knowledge and empathize, but also accept those with abilities beyond what we see. ❤️
June 5, 2021
Story promotes facilitated communication (FC) for nonverbal individuals. FC was debunked over a decade ago. Only gives false hopes. Seems ironic that the title is “real” when FC is far from being real.
August 14, 2022
My feelings about this book are... complicated.
It is OwnVoices representation, and that's good. The representation is good.
Now, it is representation as plot--a book about a girl with autism who has autism. And that's fine, too, those books can be valuable, though it does sometimes feel a little on the clinical side. By that I mean, Charity doesn't have a lot going on outside being autistic. It's a book about humanizing autism, not a book about Charity.
What sat so poorly with me was how many people were allowed to abuse Charity and just get away with it. I get it with, for example, Mason and Kiki, who were just kind of awkward, but Elvi? What the hell? Elvi used slurs against her own niece and constantly demeaned her, and then suddenly realized, "Wow, you can talk you must have a brain!" and Charity immediately was okay with her. An adult used discriminatory cyber-bullying against a child and finding out who was behind it seemed the end of that. It just felt like Charity, a child, was called upon to display the grace of a Saint and the narrative tacitly forgave multiple adults for being incredibly ableist. That's kind of a side effect of writing a children's book about discrimination: the perpetrators are let far too easily off the hook.
Then there's the matter of savantism. This happens a lot in books with neurodivergent characters written for this age range and below. In MG/YA representation becomes more nuanced, but even if the character concludes that people matter because they're people, the narrative leads hard on, "Hah, you thought she was dumb, but actually she's the SMARTEST KID IN CLASS." Which, ffs. Let her be special but maybe let a kid with a disability just be a kid?
So... yeah. I guess I question who this book is for. Parents of autistic kids? People working in special ed? If so, it does its job. Those characters are constant cheerleaders, unwavering beacons of light. Actual autistic kids? Eh... it's okay. Allistic kids? Maybe.
It's good that more neurodiverse authors are publishing neurodivergent-representative books. But this wouldn't be super high on my list.
It is OwnVoices representation, and that's good. The representation is good.
Now, it is representation as plot--a book about a girl with autism who has autism. And that's fine, too, those books can be valuable, though it does sometimes feel a little on the clinical side. By that I mean, Charity doesn't have a lot going on outside being autistic. It's a book about humanizing autism, not a book about Charity.
What sat so poorly with me was how many people were allowed to abuse Charity and just get away with it. I get it with, for example, Mason and Kiki, who were just kind of awkward, but Elvi? What the hell? Elvi used slurs against her own niece and constantly demeaned her, and then suddenly realized, "Wow, you can talk you must have a brain!" and Charity immediately was okay with her. An adult used discriminatory cyber-bullying against a child and finding out who was behind it seemed the end of that. It just felt like Charity, a child, was called upon to display the grace of a Saint and the narrative tacitly forgave multiple adults for being incredibly ableist. That's kind of a side effect of writing a children's book about discrimination: the perpetrators are let far too easily off the hook.
Then there's the matter of savantism. This happens a lot in books with neurodivergent characters written for this age range and below. In MG/YA representation becomes more nuanced, but even if the character concludes that people matter because they're people, the narrative leads hard on, "Hah, you thought she was dumb, but actually she's the SMARTEST KID IN CLASS." Which, ffs. Let her be special but maybe let a kid with a disability just be a kid?
So... yeah. I guess I question who this book is for. Parents of autistic kids? People working in special ed? If so, it does its job. Those characters are constant cheerleaders, unwavering beacons of light. Actual autistic kids? Eh... it's okay. Allistic kids? Maybe.
It's good that more neurodiverse authors are publishing neurodivergent-representative books. But this wouldn't be super high on my list.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2020
"Real" was a beautiful, moving book.
When I first read the first lines of the summary, it strongly reminded me of one of my very favourite books, "Out of my mind", where the main character is tetraplegic due to a neurological disease. Here, our heroine has low-functioning autism, which is very different but similar in the way that it causes her to not be able to use her body in a way she would like, and therefore not be able to communicate... Because of this, she is taken advantage of by unscrupulous people and dismissed by members of her own family. Both situation are extremely sad and inexcusable, but it makes us understand better why some people react as they do with disabled people, and how one can complete misunderstand someone who is not able to communicate. I think this book teaches us first and foremost to be open-minded, not to jump to any conclusion about other people, and to be patient with differently-abled people, who can be just as kind, smart, funny as any other person if we take time to discover their personality.
Charity is a bright kid with likes and dislikes, the desire to be included, have friends, be understood and spoken to directly...like any other person. But she cannot control her body enough to communicate for the first thirteen years of her life - except to a certain extent with her wonderful parents who understand her quite well. Image being caged in your own body!
When Charity finds a way to communicate, with a special keyboard, her whole world changes, and she is at last considered as a "full" person in the eyes of her community. It was very moving to see how such a small thing: a keyboard, and someone who help her type, could change her life so throughly. Like Charity, we can only hope that all those unable to communicate will meet people kind and patient enough to find a way to let them hear their voice.
Would absolutely recommend this wonderful book (inspired by a true story) to anyone and everyone!
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review*
When I first read the first lines of the summary, it strongly reminded me of one of my very favourite books, "Out of my mind", where the main character is tetraplegic due to a neurological disease. Here, our heroine has low-functioning autism, which is very different but similar in the way that it causes her to not be able to use her body in a way she would like, and therefore not be able to communicate... Because of this, she is taken advantage of by unscrupulous people and dismissed by members of her own family. Both situation are extremely sad and inexcusable, but it makes us understand better why some people react as they do with disabled people, and how one can complete misunderstand someone who is not able to communicate. I think this book teaches us first and foremost to be open-minded, not to jump to any conclusion about other people, and to be patient with differently-abled people, who can be just as kind, smart, funny as any other person if we take time to discover their personality.
Charity is a bright kid with likes and dislikes, the desire to be included, have friends, be understood and spoken to directly...like any other person. But she cannot control her body enough to communicate for the first thirteen years of her life - except to a certain extent with her wonderful parents who understand her quite well. Image being caged in your own body!
When Charity finds a way to communicate, with a special keyboard, her whole world changes, and she is at last considered as a "full" person in the eyes of her community. It was very moving to see how such a small thing: a keyboard, and someone who help her type, could change her life so throughly. Like Charity, we can only hope that all those unable to communicate will meet people kind and patient enough to find a way to let them hear their voice.
Would absolutely recommend this wonderful book (inspired by a true story) to anyone and everyone!
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review*
January 17, 2021
'Real' is a hard hitting story of a teen with nonverbal autism.
Written by Carol Cujec and Peyton Goddard, whose life this story is based on, 'Real' is book that refuses to hold its punches. It puts you in the mind of Charity, an autistic teenager "stuck in her own body" and unable to communicate. I have read other books with an autistic character and have read about their struggles to process and navigate emotions and daily life, but being nonverbal is a whole other level of difficulty.
Charity is intelligent and just wants a chance to show people that, or to just speak at all. The frustrations and terrors she felt are so well described you truly get to walk a few steps in her shoes. The abuse she faced at the "alternative school" was hard to read, and seeing those "teachers" be cruel to those unable to speak up about being abused was rage-inducing.
But more than anything, Charity's story is about hope. Charity uses her new found voice (a computer program she can type on to communicate) to speak for others in her situation, and never stops trying to make sure she's understood. Even after all she went through, she only wanted to spread her message of inclusivity and importance of having diverse friends.
This book should be required reading for all kids in school, and even adults right now. We should all be more like Charity.
5/5
Thank you Shadow Mountain publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Written by Carol Cujec and Peyton Goddard, whose life this story is based on, 'Real' is book that refuses to hold its punches. It puts you in the mind of Charity, an autistic teenager "stuck in her own body" and unable to communicate. I have read other books with an autistic character and have read about their struggles to process and navigate emotions and daily life, but being nonverbal is a whole other level of difficulty.
Charity is intelligent and just wants a chance to show people that, or to just speak at all. The frustrations and terrors she felt are so well described you truly get to walk a few steps in her shoes. The abuse she faced at the "alternative school" was hard to read, and seeing those "teachers" be cruel to those unable to speak up about being abused was rage-inducing.
But more than anything, Charity's story is about hope. Charity uses her new found voice (a computer program she can type on to communicate) to speak for others in her situation, and never stops trying to make sure she's understood. Even after all she went through, she only wanted to spread her message of inclusivity and importance of having diverse friends.
This book should be required reading for all kids in school, and even adults right now. We should all be more like Charity.
5/5
Thank you Shadow Mountain publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2021
My goodness. I had no expectations going into this book, but I was blown away. I laughed, cried, and felt all the emotions. This is a book I will be keeping with me for a very long time.
This is another must read for everyone. Throughout my work with individuals with intellectual disabilities I often see ‘neurotypicals’ treating non neurotypical people like they are not actual people and/or cannot understand them . Even in this part memoir, it was so easy to see that ‘Charity’s aunt had no intentions of making her feel inferior or worthless and yet as soon as she realized that what she was doing affected charity and that charity was also a human who felt emotions, she could not believe how she acted.
Many times the actions of those within this book made me feel sick to my stomach. That’s why if I ever have kids I will absolutely appreciate the importance of own voice books like these that need to be read and taught in order to understand the consequences of actions.
This book was an easy read that dealt with incredibly important topics. I would read it with family members, in the classroom, anywhere really. I’m sure if you give this book a shot you’ll fall in love with charity, mason, the dad and everyone just as much as I did.
This is another must read for everyone. Throughout my work with individuals with intellectual disabilities I often see ‘neurotypicals’ treating non neurotypical people like they are not actual people and/or cannot understand them . Even in this part memoir, it was so easy to see that ‘Charity’s aunt had no intentions of making her feel inferior or worthless and yet as soon as she realized that what she was doing affected charity and that charity was also a human who felt emotions, she could not believe how she acted.
Many times the actions of those within this book made me feel sick to my stomach. That’s why if I ever have kids I will absolutely appreciate the importance of own voice books like these that need to be read and taught in order to understand the consequences of actions.
This book was an easy read that dealt with incredibly important topics. I would read it with family members, in the classroom, anywhere really. I’m sure if you give this book a shot you’ll fall in love with charity, mason, the dad and everyone just as much as I did.
February 26, 2021
This book is so powerful and important that I feel insignificant writing a review for it. Real touched my heart in many ways. I loved learning about Charity, who has nonverbal autism, and her journey to find a voice and help others like her. Her story is utterly inspiring and brought me to tears many times through this book. I couldn't help but love all the kind, patient, and believing adults who helped her throughout. This book reminded me of all the sadness and horrible things these kids go through in this harsh world, but it also reminded me that there are kindhearted heroes who can help them, and that each of these kids has a voice and a place in our world. And I loved that it was based on a true story. I think everyone would benefit from reading this book.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Shadow Mountain, for the review copy!
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Shadow Mountain, for the review copy!
December 24, 2020
Yes. All the yes. Open your eyes and ears, people.
December 22, 2022
First, I want to thank Shadow Mountain publishing for giving me an advance copy of Real in exchange for my honest review. Before we get started, I want to note I spent several *weeks* on this review because it was that important to me, because I loved Real *that* much.
For those who just want to know if this book is good: It is absolutely outstanding beyond all words.
It took me less than 10 hours to read it, and that was with running errands that day. That is how completely absorbed I was in Charity's story.
I have spent two weeks trying to think of something critical to say about this book, but I keep coming up empty handed. Like I said, I believe honesty is crucial from advance readers, but this book absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Even in amidst my other reading, I’ve kept picking it up to reread certain parts because Charity just hasn’t let me go.
While it is written for younger readers, please, don’t let that stop you. In my opinion, this is a story that desperately needed to be told and that everyone should read. I’m 33 and I have been recommending it to all of my friends and family. Even my 51 year old mother.
I can’t recommend Real enough. Like I said, I’m 33, this is a Middle-Grade to Young Adult book, and I have been lamenting the fact that “9 days into the year, and I’ve already read the best book of 2021.”
But though I may grumble, the truth is: I do not regret it in the slightest. This book *needed* to exist, and I am so grateful to not only have had the chance to read it, but to have been given the privilege to do so early.
Now, for a little less gushing, and a little more analytical stuff…. Also, in theory, some of what I'm going to say could be considered spoiler-ish? So be warned.
Full Disclosure: I'm neurodivergent, and I know this may lend some bias in my feelings on this. Because there is nowhere near enough literature written ABOUT neurodivergent people to begin with, and even less written BY neurodivergent people. Which is really, really disheartening. Far too often, our stories are left in the hands of people who can only imagine what it is like to live in our bodies, in our minds.
Let's be honest: They rarely get it right.
Having said that, I can't truly say if Real gets this experience inherently right, because Charity's neurodivergence differs so greatly from my own. However, the book is based on the experiences of one of the two co-authors, Peyton Goddard, and that in and of itself makes Real a massive moment in literature that I hope the publishing world takes note of. We now live in a world where many who have long been voiceless due to lack of necessary tools, now have a “voice” and we need to be doing everything we can to elevate that for the good of all of us, but especially the most marginalized among us.
And for anyone else who is neurodivergent or disabled and may be concerned: this isn't "inspiration p*rn" like so many stories written by neurotypical people about neurodivergent people tend to be.
This is a story that is brutally honest about how our present system is exploiting and abusing neurodivergent people, especially children. How the resources that our society allocates, that are supposed to be going to help them, are often just taken by the same people who are so readily abusing the most vulnerable of our people. While it didn't get *as* terrifyingly honest as adult literature might have, which I think was absolutely the proper choice because again, this is a Middle Grade book, it still was hauntingly honest without going so far as to cause trauma to kids.
But, again, this isn't written for neurotypical people to feel good about themselves. Because honestly, while there are many neurotypical folks throughout Charity’s life who are doing their best by her, even the best of them can wind up falling short and making mistakes.
While I readily admit, everyone interprets stories differently, for *me,* there were some really powerful and fantastic takeaways from Charity’s story:
1) Stop assuming absolutely anything about other people based on your preconceived notions about what makes a person worthy. A lot of emphasis is placed on Charity’s intelligence, which may seem to some as saying she’s only worthy of respect because she’s so capable intellectually (it’s absolutely not, the book makes that clear), but makes more sense when you realize this is a child who has grown up around people who have perpetually denigrated with the R-slur, and who act as if she has little more awareness than an animal. The fact of the matter is that just because our resources and capabilities are currently limited, and we may not fully be able to understand or communicate with someone, does not mean we should ever think them less than. Whether that be less intelligent, less worthy, less deserving, less *human.* We are seeing more and more, every single day that intelligence has so many forms that we have inherently misunderstood. That what makes someone human and *good*, has very little to do with what we used to perceive as “intelligence.” Which steps right into the second take.
2) The incredible work that’s being done to make the world more accessible is absolutely vital and we need to do whatever we can to expand and promote it. This work is helping us find new tools, skills, and resources to help reach people who have difficulties with “traditional” communication. We need to delve into these fields headfirst and do whatever we can to bolster them, because it is changing the world in ways we can’t even imagine. Instead of so much of our past techniques and “treatments” that are little more than coercion or outright abuse, there is so much more we can do when we take the time to see neurodivergent people as *people* who need a little bit of assistance, vs. “something to be fixed.” Also, I have to note that the idea that we should push people to communicate is absurd. A lot of extreme abuse has been perpetuated, especially against children, in that pursuit and it is horrific. Especially trying to get them to communicate orally, which is unacceptable.
3) There needs to be more literature about, for, and especially by, neurodivergent people. We live in the 21st century with 7 billion people on the planet. While the #OwnVoices movement has been gaining traction, it has been startlingly slow. Publishing is still overwhelmingly dominated by the same voices it always has been, and this is especially true where neurodivergence is concerned. Real shows beyond even the farthest shadow of a doubt, that not only can neurodivergent people tell our own stories, but it is not necessary or even preferable to do so solely in the non-fiction settings it has been so often done up to this point. It’s really quite simple: There is zero reason that neurodivergent stories should be written without, at the absolute minimum, input and consultation of neurodivergent people. But Real proves, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that as often as we possibly can, we should be enabling neurodivergent people to tell neurodivergent stories. Not only does it make for a better story, but it also is more authentic, more honest, and more likely to reach those who need these stories most.
For those who just want to know if this book is good: It is absolutely outstanding beyond all words.
It took me less than 10 hours to read it, and that was with running errands that day. That is how completely absorbed I was in Charity's story.
I have spent two weeks trying to think of something critical to say about this book, but I keep coming up empty handed. Like I said, I believe honesty is crucial from advance readers, but this book absolutely fantastic from start to finish. Even in amidst my other reading, I’ve kept picking it up to reread certain parts because Charity just hasn’t let me go.
While it is written for younger readers, please, don’t let that stop you. In my opinion, this is a story that desperately needed to be told and that everyone should read. I’m 33 and I have been recommending it to all of my friends and family. Even my 51 year old mother.
I can’t recommend Real enough. Like I said, I’m 33, this is a Middle-Grade to Young Adult book, and I have been lamenting the fact that “9 days into the year, and I’ve already read the best book of 2021.”
But though I may grumble, the truth is: I do not regret it in the slightest. This book *needed* to exist, and I am so grateful to not only have had the chance to read it, but to have been given the privilege to do so early.
Now, for a little less gushing, and a little more analytical stuff…. Also, in theory, some of what I'm going to say could be considered spoiler-ish? So be warned.
Full Disclosure: I'm neurodivergent, and I know this may lend some bias in my feelings on this. Because there is nowhere near enough literature written ABOUT neurodivergent people to begin with, and even less written BY neurodivergent people. Which is really, really disheartening. Far too often, our stories are left in the hands of people who can only imagine what it is like to live in our bodies, in our minds.
Let's be honest: They rarely get it right.
Having said that, I can't truly say if Real gets this experience inherently right, because Charity's neurodivergence differs so greatly from my own. However, the book is based on the experiences of one of the two co-authors, Peyton Goddard, and that in and of itself makes Real a massive moment in literature that I hope the publishing world takes note of. We now live in a world where many who have long been voiceless due to lack of necessary tools, now have a “voice” and we need to be doing everything we can to elevate that for the good of all of us, but especially the most marginalized among us.
And for anyone else who is neurodivergent or disabled and may be concerned: this isn't "inspiration p*rn" like so many stories written by neurotypical people about neurodivergent people tend to be.
This is a story that is brutally honest about how our present system is exploiting and abusing neurodivergent people, especially children. How the resources that our society allocates, that are supposed to be going to help them, are often just taken by the same people who are so readily abusing the most vulnerable of our people. While it didn't get *as* terrifyingly honest as adult literature might have, which I think was absolutely the proper choice because again, this is a Middle Grade book, it still was hauntingly honest without going so far as to cause trauma to kids.
But, again, this isn't written for neurotypical people to feel good about themselves. Because honestly, while there are many neurotypical folks throughout Charity’s life who are doing their best by her, even the best of them can wind up falling short and making mistakes.
While I readily admit, everyone interprets stories differently, for *me,* there were some really powerful and fantastic takeaways from Charity’s story:
1) Stop assuming absolutely anything about other people based on your preconceived notions about what makes a person worthy. A lot of emphasis is placed on Charity’s intelligence, which may seem to some as saying she’s only worthy of respect because she’s so capable intellectually (it’s absolutely not, the book makes that clear), but makes more sense when you realize this is a child who has grown up around people who have perpetually denigrated with the R-slur, and who act as if she has little more awareness than an animal. The fact of the matter is that just because our resources and capabilities are currently limited, and we may not fully be able to understand or communicate with someone, does not mean we should ever think them less than. Whether that be less intelligent, less worthy, less deserving, less *human.* We are seeing more and more, every single day that intelligence has so many forms that we have inherently misunderstood. That what makes someone human and *good*, has very little to do with what we used to perceive as “intelligence.” Which steps right into the second take.
2) The incredible work that’s being done to make the world more accessible is absolutely vital and we need to do whatever we can to expand and promote it. This work is helping us find new tools, skills, and resources to help reach people who have difficulties with “traditional” communication. We need to delve into these fields headfirst and do whatever we can to bolster them, because it is changing the world in ways we can’t even imagine. Instead of so much of our past techniques and “treatments” that are little more than coercion or outright abuse, there is so much more we can do when we take the time to see neurodivergent people as *people* who need a little bit of assistance, vs. “something to be fixed.” Also, I have to note that the idea that we should push people to communicate is absurd. A lot of extreme abuse has been perpetuated, especially against children, in that pursuit and it is horrific. Especially trying to get them to communicate orally, which is unacceptable.
3) There needs to be more literature about, for, and especially by, neurodivergent people. We live in the 21st century with 7 billion people on the planet. While the #OwnVoices movement has been gaining traction, it has been startlingly slow. Publishing is still overwhelmingly dominated by the same voices it always has been, and this is especially true where neurodivergence is concerned. Real shows beyond even the farthest shadow of a doubt, that not only can neurodivergent people tell our own stories, but it is not necessary or even preferable to do so solely in the non-fiction settings it has been so often done up to this point. It’s really quite simple: There is zero reason that neurodivergent stories should be written without, at the absolute minimum, input and consultation of neurodivergent people. But Real proves, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that as often as we possibly can, we should be enabling neurodivergent people to tell neurodivergent stories. Not only does it make for a better story, but it also is more authentic, more honest, and more likely to reach those who need these stories most.
April 21, 2021
I wish I had more books like this when I was a kid.
The narrator is a teenager named Charity, who had been diagnosed with low-functioning autism and is unable to control her body or communicate with the world around her. She is highly intelligent with loving and supportive parents, but struggles with how she is perceived as the exact opposite by nearly everyone else.
I haven’t read any young adult fiction in a while, so it took me a little bit to shift gears and roll with the simpler dialogue and situations, which are pitched with the younger reader in mind. There are some heartbreaking scenes right at the beginning involving mistreatment at a special-needs school - nothing over the top, but hard to read as it was cruel and sadly completely believable. The transition to a mainstream school is at the heart of the book and introduces a cast of supportive characters as well as bullies.
The plot beats are familiar and the story moves through them really quickly to arrive at a positive resolution, but that didn’t detract from the reading experience at all. For me, the book’s main strength was in how it helped me empathize with the narrator, not just her frustrations at feeling like a prisoner in her own body but also the awareness (and fear) of impending uncontrollable outbursts and the calming effects of self-stimulation like rocking back and forth or flapping hands. I also appreciated the insight into a different type of thought process, as Charity processes situations by making connections to memorized animal reference guides (right down to the page number). It’s all presented very sincerely and with great care.
Real is an important and worthwhile book, successfully voicing an example of a neuro-diverse perspective for young people. We could always use more like it as it’s never a bad thing to encourage kindness and understanding.
The narrator is a teenager named Charity, who had been diagnosed with low-functioning autism and is unable to control her body or communicate with the world around her. She is highly intelligent with loving and supportive parents, but struggles with how she is perceived as the exact opposite by nearly everyone else.
I haven’t read any young adult fiction in a while, so it took me a little bit to shift gears and roll with the simpler dialogue and situations, which are pitched with the younger reader in mind. There are some heartbreaking scenes right at the beginning involving mistreatment at a special-needs school - nothing over the top, but hard to read as it was cruel and sadly completely believable. The transition to a mainstream school is at the heart of the book and introduces a cast of supportive characters as well as bullies.
The plot beats are familiar and the story moves through them really quickly to arrive at a positive resolution, but that didn’t detract from the reading experience at all. For me, the book’s main strength was in how it helped me empathize with the narrator, not just her frustrations at feeling like a prisoner in her own body but also the awareness (and fear) of impending uncontrollable outbursts and the calming effects of self-stimulation like rocking back and forth or flapping hands. I also appreciated the insight into a different type of thought process, as Charity processes situations by making connections to memorized animal reference guides (right down to the page number). It’s all presented very sincerely and with great care.
Real is an important and worthwhile book, successfully voicing an example of a neuro-diverse perspective for young people. We could always use more like it as it’s never a bad thing to encourage kindness and understanding.
September 8, 2022
Wow! I do not think I can adequately express what a gem of a book this is thru a few words!
My 14 yr old daughter got as a gift, and said I had to read it. I always love when my kids recommend books to me! She was right, it is so good, and I loved it!
Look at the proportion of high ratings and reviews here. It is deserved. The few low reviews I must say I don’t agree with their areas of dislike. This book is well written, brings out ALL the emotions. Centers around very relatable, and important topics (it’s very REAL - the title is perfect). Main themes of being able to use a voice is a gift, disability and school system, inclusion, right to education, overcoming challenges while being an advocate for others, bullying, and more.
If you have read and loved Wonder by RJ Palaccio, you will likewise love this book. Very similar, but entirely it’s own story as well. This book is new-ish and not very well known. But seriously, don’t miss it! Spread the word of how good it is too!
Highly recommend for all ages! Written as jr fiction book, but is largely based on true stories of one of the authors. Nearly all adults would enjoy. I think every mother and teacher especially would love this book. Could work very well as a read aloud chapter book to young kids too. The audiobook narration is great too.
One favorite line toward end of the book
“It does not matter if a test says they are smart. It matters that they are human. Believe that treasures are in all. Believe that all kids can learn. Everyone deserves to be included.”
My 14 yr old daughter got as a gift, and said I had to read it. I always love when my kids recommend books to me! She was right, it is so good, and I loved it!
Look at the proportion of high ratings and reviews here. It is deserved. The few low reviews I must say I don’t agree with their areas of dislike. This book is well written, brings out ALL the emotions. Centers around very relatable, and important topics (it’s very REAL - the title is perfect). Main themes of being able to use a voice is a gift, disability and school system, inclusion, right to education, overcoming challenges while being an advocate for others, bullying, and more.
If you have read and loved Wonder by RJ Palaccio, you will likewise love this book. Very similar, but entirely it’s own story as well. This book is new-ish and not very well known. But seriously, don’t miss it! Spread the word of how good it is too!
Highly recommend for all ages! Written as jr fiction book, but is largely based on true stories of one of the authors. Nearly all adults would enjoy. I think every mother and teacher especially would love this book. Could work very well as a read aloud chapter book to young kids too. The audiobook narration is great too.
One favorite line toward end of the book
“It does not matter if a test says they are smart. It matters that they are human. Believe that treasures are in all. Believe that all kids can learn. Everyone deserves to be included.”
July 2, 2022
“Believe that all kids can learn. Everyone deserves to be included.”
January 12, 2022
An Own Voices book that centers around the main character, Charity, who has autism and is non-verbal. This ML or YA novel is written in partnership with Goddard, based on her own story of growing up “without a voice” and being treated with very little dignity and/or was ignored in the education system for most of her childhood and young adult life. Empowering story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews