THE UNSTOPPABLE JAMIE

A child with Down syndrome learns to self-regulate during a trip to New York City.

Jamie is “unstoppable”—in fact, he’s a “SUPERHERO,” with an arsenal of gadgets. Headphones muffle loud noises, and “super focus” helps him stay calm. Most important is his red superhero cape. Jamie is so super that his photo will be displayed in Times Square as part of the Buddy Walk (backmatter explains that it’s an annual fundraiser sponsored by the National Down Syndrome Society). Mom, Dad, Jamie, and Jamie’s brother, Ben, travel to New York to see it. But when Jamie loses his headphones, the bustling big city puts his powers to the test. Amid a cacophony of sounds, Jamie huddles on the sidewalk, cape over his head. Is Jamie still a superhero? With his family’s support, Jamie realizes that he’s a superhero just for being himself. Warm, cartoon illustrations gently convey Jamie’s emotions and his family’s love. An author’s note explains that Jamie is based on Givens’ son Joshua, who has Down syndrome, and offers more information on the condition. However, Down syndrome is unnamed in the story. Not all readers will recognize its subtle depiction in Jamie’s facial features, and while the billboard mentions the National Down Syndrome Society, the tiny words are barely legible. Nevertheless, kids who sometimes find things “WAY too loud” will especially root for Jamie. Jamie, Mom, and Ben have light-brown skin; Dad has lighter skin. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Heartwarming and reassuring.