Not So Different

Written by Shane Burcaw · Illustrated by Matt Carr

Explore life with a disability through humor and honesty.

4.5 Goodreads · 1,110 ratings

40 pages· 917 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud· 860L

$17.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Shane faces life with spinal muscular atrophy, answering curious questions with humor and warmth. Despite physical challenges, he enjoys life’s pleasures, relying on loved ones for support. Discover his unique perspective and the joy he finds in everyday moments, challenging perceptions and celebrating resilience.

From the publisher

Not So Different offers a humorous, relatable, and refreshingly honest glimpse into Shane Burcaw’s life. Shane tackles many of the mundane and quirky questions that he’s often asked about living with a disability, and shows readers that he’s just as approachable, friendly, and funny as anyone else. Shane Burcaw was born with a rare disease called spinal muscular atrophy, which hinders his muscles’ growth. As a result, his body hasn’t grown bigger and stronger as he’s gotten older–it’s gotten smaller and weaker instead. This hasn’t stopped him from doing the things he enjoys (like eating pizza and playing sports and video games) with the people he loves, but it does mean that he routinely relies on his friends and family for help with everything from brushing his teeth to rolling over in bed. A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2017