Julie Summers’ Bookshelf
Up, Not Down Syndrome
Nancy M. Schwartz
Modern History Press
9781615994632, $32.95, HC, 124pp,
Synopsis: Up, Not Down Syndrome: Uplifting Lessons Learned from Raising a Son with Trisomy 21 by Nancy M. Schwartz candidly reveals to the reader the experience what it feels like to think your life is over after having an unlovable baby.
At first the loss seems impossible to overcome. But her son Alex becomes Nancy’s greatest teacher with the clarion message that Love is stronger than Fear — that everyone has gifts.
“Up, Not Down Syndrome” is comprised of three parts: the story, the lessons Alex taught the writer, and Alex’s unique perspective. “Up, Not Down Syndrome” is a promise to stay positive, no matter what: up, not down. Nancy’s journey gets to the core of what it is to be human:
Critique: Inherently fascinating, impressively informative, inspired and inspiring, “Up, Not Down Syndrome: Uplifting Lessons Learned from Raising a Son with Trisomy 21” is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to community and academic library Contemporary Parenting collections in general, and Down Syndrome supplemental curriculum studies in particular.
It should be noted for the personal reading lists of students, academia, parents and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that “Up, Not Down Syndrome: Uplifting Lessons Learned from Raising a Son with Trisomy 21” is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781615994625, $21.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.95).
Editorial Note: Nancy Schwartz has taught in Pennsylvania for twenty-six years. She holds certificates as an ESL program specialist, reading specialist, and elementary and early education educator. She maintains a website at www.UpNotDownBook.com.