Laughing at My Nightmare

Reviewed by: Dorothy Hall-Riddle - N/A, Cumberland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 10, 2015

Review

This is quite possibly one of the funniest books about a not-so-funny reality of which most readers have no personal concept. Shane Burcaw was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy and spends his days in a wheelchair. He has an acerbic wit, great sense of adventure, and a very supportive family. He hasn't let his condition become a disability, but rather a motivation to help others through the blog he started and the nonprofit organization he founded. He graduated from college and has a great network of friends, most of whom have been accomplices in one zany stunt or another. His attitude towards life and his condition should be a lesson to us all, especially adolescents, who are often quick to judge and prejudiced against someone who is different or handicapped. Shane doesn't mince words and describes with great detail personal information readers would surely be curious of but afraid or embarrassed to ask about. The possibilities of rich discussions are endless, following the reading of this autobiography.

Overall Book Score: excellent