Rules

Lord, C. (2008). Rules. NY: Scholastic. 

Summary

Having a disability means that sometimes, simple things don’t come easily. Catherine knows that living with a little brother who has a disability is often just as hard.  Caught between two worlds, Catherine knows that acceptance from her peers won’t come without a sacrifice. but is she willing to pay this price at the expense of the people that matter most to her?

Notes

While this book deals with a rather specific situation, a young girl trying to navigate life with a family member who is autistic and friendship with a young man who can't speak, the themes of this novel ring true to almost any adolescent. The main character strives to figure out her identity, find balance within her family, and manage a balance between how she is perceived by her peers and who she really wants to be. These transcendent themes can resonate with young readers regardless of their specific situations.

Extension

Catherine created many word cards for Jason. She chose unique words for him that were meaningful and helped expand his shades of communication. Create 5 word cards for Jason using words, emotions, and feelings that are important to you.