A teenagers story of life alongside siblings with disabilities
Victorian author Liz Wilks first hand knowledge of Autism and Down syndrome has inspired her to write a young teen novel expressing the daily challenges of life with two siblings with disabilities, tackling issues of disability, relationships, bullying, sexuality and sport with realism and humor.
In 'Sara Webb: Disaster Area', Liz has explored the effects of disability on siblings and family through adolescent fiction to encourage understanding so that stigma and discrimination can give way to insight and acceptance of how life is for those living in this situation.
The story is fast paced and entertaining, using a fictional family in a variety of comedic situations to re-assure siblings they are not alone in these experiences and to inform other teens of what their classmates could be going through at home. Sara, the gutsy young heroine must battle her own personal problems whilst dealing with the ups and downs of relationships with her brothers and the affect they have on her every day life.
Published by Lothian Books, and available in bookshops now.
RRP: $14.95.
About the author:
Liz Wilks has been involved with the Down Syndrome Association of Victoria (DSAV) and Autism Victoria for many years and currently is the editor of the DSAVs quarterly publication "Downs Voice". She has two sons (one with Autism and one with Down syndrome) and a daughter - her inspiration for this novel. Prior to having a family, Liz worked as an artist for The Herald and Weekly Times in Melbourne. In recent years her illustrations, poems and stories have appeared in a wide range of publications.
Down Syndrome Awareness Week:
During Down Syndrome Awareness Week (Oct 14-21) Liz Wilks will be appearing in local shopping centres to sign copies of her book. She will also be attending the launch of DSA Week at Southbank on Sunday 15th October between 12.30pm 2.30pm. Please contact the Down Syndrome Assoc of Victoria for locations, dates and times on (03) 9486-9600 or visit www.dsav.asn.au