This book is a top-notch history of where we have been as a society dealing with children with special needs. It lays the groundwork for many of the programs and ideas we have today. Definitely worthwhile reading.

I discovered this book shortly after my daughter was born with a severe orthopedic birth defect, and it helped me a great deal to cope during those early months. Just reading other families' stories--and seeing that there are many ways for children to develop and be loved--was a genuine inspiration. The author's special vantagepoint, as both the mother of a disabled child and a specialist in child development, lends both sensitivity and objectivity to the writing. If you "don't know what to say" to a friend or relative who is facing this crisis, let this book do the communicating...

Although I have been aware of my daughter's disability for years, I found Ms. Featherstone's book to be a source of support and understanding which I couldn't find elsewhere. This book covers a wide range of disabilities from physical, to mental, to emotional handicaps and gives first-hand accounts from people who have various relationships with the disabled. I recommend this book to anyone who is searching for a niche in the world as a relative to a someone with a disability.

I truly feel this book is a must read for anyone with a child with Down syndrome. Marilyn Trainer was able to put into words many of the same feelings that I have had about my child with Down syndrome. She is very frank and doesn't hold back on how she feels about many issues concerning her son. I highly recommend Differences in Common!