Friday 21st March is World Down Syndrome Day. Why the 21st March? The 21st day of March (the 3rd month of the year) was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome. Every year on March 21st, World Down Syndrome Day is observed to create awareness about Down syndrome. This special day, also known as WDSD is a global awareness initiative that has been backed by the United Nations since 2012. National charities across the world have linked up to develop activities and events to raise awareness and support for those living with Down syndrome. It also highlights the facts of what it’s like to have Down syndrome, and how those with Down syndrome have, and continue to play, a vital role in our communities.

Although the situation regarding the representation of disability in children’s literature is slowly improving it can be hard to find books featuring young children with Down Syndrome. However over the the last few months I have discovered some wonderful books for the primary school audience written by people with an insight and understanding of DS. The books I have highlighted below will allow children with DS to see themselves in stories, something all children should be able to do. They will also allow other children to develop an understanding of others who although a little different to themselves do in fact have a great deal in common.

George and the Mini Dragon by George Webster in collaboration with Helen Harvey illustrated by Tim Budgen

George and the Mini Dragon is the first in a new series aimed at readers of about 6+ and ticks all the right boxes to ensure that this is enjoyed by its target audience. It is full of fun, supportive friendship and a likeable main character with a positive and inclusive theme throughout. A delight!

As George’s 7th birthday approaches he longs for a pet of his own. When the big day arrives he receives gifts that he had hoped for but sadly not the much wanted pet. George resolves to rectify this himself and as he blows his birthday candles out he makes a rather special, secret wish. He wishes for a pet dragon! Later when he is playing in the garden with his best friends Jason and Faiza he discovers a small lizard behind the shed. As he gets to know this little creature he realises that his wish has come true and he is now the proud owner of a pet dragon whom he names Lava. But how will George cope with caring for a mini dragon who can’t stay out of mischief? The ensuing magic and mayhem will amuse and entertain children and the ending sets the scene for more fun in the future.

George and the Mini Dragon is a lovely adventure for young readers who will be engaged from the first page in this happy story of family, school and friendship. George is instantly appealing being enthusiastic and positive throughout. The fact that he has Down Syndrome is mentioned in the story with the use of Makaton being included together with reference to his occasional difficulty with his speech when he is over excited but is portrayed in a matter of fact and upbeat manner. The whole tone of this charming book is positive and encourages empathy and understanding. The cheerful illustrations by Tim Budgen convey this positivity and enthusiasm well and add greatly to the appeal of this early chapter book. George Webster, through his role as a CBeebies presenter and an ambassador for Mencap, is doing much to raise the profile of children and young people with Down Syndrome.

George and the Mini Dragon would be a great addition to primary school library and classroom bookshelves and I do hope that we will be seeing more stories following George’s adventures. This was my own purchase and was published by Scholastic on 13th February.

One Extra Sparkle: Ellie and the Marriage List by Tricia Sebolt illustrated by Lucy Rogers

The first in a new series, Ellie and the Marriage List, is a charming story featuring a 10-year-old girl with Down’s Syndrome who fears that she may lose her elder brother for good when he becomes involved with their new neighbour.

This is pitched well for its intended audience of newly confident readers of about 7+ and as the first in a series should engage children who will then want to follow Ellie’s further adventures. Ellie loves nothing more than being able to sit and draw under her favourite weeping willow tree in the garden and hanging out with her big brother Ben. However, this summer is different as Ben is busy with his summer job, playing football and to make matters worse he is now preoccupied with their new neighbour, Sara. Ellie and her friend Ling misunderstand the situation and think that marriage is on the cards for Sara and Ben so Ellie resolves to stop the ‘marriage plans’ but her efforts do not go to plan and soon her beloved tree is in danger, feelings are hurt and her family are disappointed with her. Ellie must find a way to put things right, save her tree and win back her brother’s understanding.

The author, Tricia Seabolt, has experience of working in an educational capacity within the Down Syndrome community and she uses this knowledge and understanding to underpin her incorporation of Ellie’s condition within the story. At the end of the story useful information including facts about Down’s Syndrome itself and the way in which it manifests in different people is provided plus details about the therapies that help support children like Ellie. This would be a valuable book for primary school classrooms and libraries. Published by Lantana Publishing in 2024 and you can read my fuller review for Just Imagine here.  

The Mizzy Mysteries: A Skeleton in the Closet by Claire Hatcher- Smith illustrated by Lester McCoogan

Another first in a new series and this time in the murder mystery genre, A Skeleton in the Closet introduces readers to likable would be detective, twelve year old Mizzy. Mizzy would give anything to be like her TV hero, Rachel Bailey, but this is difficult when real life is short on mysteries and she believes that others do not take her seriously.

Each summer Mizzy goes to stay with her cousins but this year for the first time the two boys have rather outgrown their young cousin and leave her to her own devices. Then Mizzy discovers Great Aunt Jane’s long lost diaries in a locked wardrobe and she realises that her relative’s death may not be all it seemed. Under the pretence of researching a family history school project Mizzy begins her investigations and gradually suspicion starts to fall on a family member. Can she uncover the truth and even if she does will her family believe her?

Mizzy is an extremely engaging character, likeable, funny and determined and readers will readily empathise with her frustrations and hopes. The fact that Mizzy has Down Syndrome does not hold her back although she does have to deal with the cautious, some times over protective nature, of members of her family, particularly her parents. Clare Hatcher-Smith has over thirty years of experience in working with young people with Down Syndrome and in her author’s note says that Mizzie is a little bit of many of the children she has taught over the years. It is this that has enabled her to create a character who will ensure her readers see the possibilities behind the stereotypes.

The plot itself twists and turns and there are red herrings to lead children astray as they read. The storyline explores the different family relationships and we see Mizzy conquering her fears and gaining confidence by the end of the book. A Skeleton in the Closet would be just right for readers age about 8 or 9+ who are looking for their first taste of the mystery genre and may appeal to those who have enjoyed the Libby series by Jo Clarke. My proof copy contains drawings by the author but the finished book will be illustrated by Lester Magoogan, an artist with Down Syndrome. Published on 27th February by Farshore and I would like to thank the publishers for providing my proof copy.

For younger children I would definitely recommend two picture books published by Scholastic. This is Me by George Webster and Claire Taylor and illustrated by Tim Budgen is inspired by an original poem featured on CBeebies, read by presenter George Webster. This lovely picture book together with its upbeat follow up, Why Not? highlight the importance of celebrating our differences and are full of kindness and positivity. The joyful illustrations match the tone of the text perfectly and include diverse and inclusive representation. These two picture books would be a great way of encouraging all children to feel as though they matter and belong and make them smile too.

I would also like to mention Sky Song by Abi Elphinstone. This story features a character named Blu, a little girl who is brave, loving, kind and joyful and who is inspired by Abi’s own sister in law who has Down Syndrome. Although her Down Syndrome is never mentioned in the story her difference is what gives this character her own unique and important place in the book. You may like to read this interview with Abi Elphinstone about Steph, the inspiration for Blu.

Finally, if you are looking for more books including characters with Down Syndrome Book Trust have put together a helpful list here. A US based website, The Ability Toolbox has some recommendations for a range of ages which can be found here.