Huberta Hellendoorn's book tells the story of a young married couple, Dutch immigrants newly arrived in New Zealand, whose first child, Miriam, is born with Down syndrome. Rather than being sad or negative, the book clearly demonstrates how their daughter is embraced into the family with love and optimism. While this book courageously depicts the hardships inherent in raising a child with special needs, it also celebrates the joys and the triumphs.
Miriam’s emergence as an artist is supported by her family, teachers and friends and her talent is acknowledged and fostered. Further, Miriam is depicted as a child and then a young woman of courage and determination and with a sense of humour and an enormous capacity for empathy and sensitivity. She is both loved and loving.
This is an extraordinary story told with insight and elegance. Huberta is a published – and a very talented – writer. The book is carefully crafted; written without sentimentality but with attention to detail and language. The stylistic device Huberta uses – the book is written as an address, or letter, to her daughter – engages the reader so that they share and are involved in the experiences.
The book, while appealing also to the general reader, would provide inspiration to any family raising a special child. It would also give hope and comfort to families of stroke victims.
This is a story of grace, inspiration and hope. A story of courage, determination and celebration of creativity, as well as a valuable and rewarding resource for families caring for a child with special needs and all professionals working with people who have a disability.
Paddy Richardson, 1997 Burns Fellow, University of Otago
Some of the many letters sent in
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