Testa, Maria. Illustrated by Diane Paterson. Thumbs Up, Rico!.
Thumbs Up, Rico! is a children’s picture book for middle to upper elementary. The book contains 3 short stories with illustrations about a young boy named Rico. Through related stories, Rico tells about his relationships with friends and family, sports and hobbies he participates in, and experiences at school.
This would be a great book to use in the classroom as a base for helping students understand that disability does not prevent you from participating in the community. In the first story, Rico does mention that he has Down Syndrome, but goes on to talk about his participation in a basketball team for special needs kids. He also describes a growing friendship with another child, Caesar, who was, at first, not open to Rico’s warm and inviting attitude. Rico’s disability is mentioned, but is not the main purpose or conflict of the story. I felt that this gave a very realistic view of Rico’s life. The style was accommodating to those who do know a little about Down Syndrome and also to those who might have some questions.
I also really liked this book because it was told directly from the eyes of a character who goes through the experience of growing up with Down Syndrome. I have found that many books focusing around characters with disabilities are told from the eyes of a brother, sister, or friend. They are not often told in the first person, which might give greater insight into the thoughts and feelings of someone who experiences life with Down’s.
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