Writing Disability Material Was Unexpected

My journey into the world of ‘disabilities’ was not planned.  I've written for years, devotions, stuff for kids, etc.....  and even a novel “More Than A Mom”, about my journey into college when our fifth child started college---  30+ years out of high school!  But the two series I write now I had NOT planned!  Totally a 'God thing'--

I wrote a children’s book using animals as characters at the request of my publisher.  There was a forest fire in the story and the 'friends' helped each other out to safety.  But in the process, Buffy the Buffalo had her baby early and Carmelita Coyote ended up having asthma from inhaling all the smoke!  So, we followed up with 'Early Arrival' ---talking about premies, still using the same characters....  and then, "The Big Race' about asthma. From there, the series was born!  Again: NOT MY PLAN!  But know that I am honored to be able to follow the calling I have been given.

In addition to this series I followed up with a middle school series with a disability back drop.  Again, not where I envisioned myself when I began writing, but delighted to be where I find myself!

My Passion Is To Make A Difference—Not In Our Differences

My writing (especially in my books) is all about teaching tolerance, understanding, kindness and empathy for those around us.  We are all different and designed to be so!  We all have special gifts which make us unique; and even in our differences we find common ground. That too, is as it should be!

The joy of reading is a bonus to my books for children, since being able to identify with each other in the different ‘landscapes of life’ is an encouragement.  We need to be able to understand that our very different lives can create a bond of similarities and unity we hadn’t counted on.

The Paxton Series

Our set of growing books (currently 14) for elementary students on disabilities is called “The Paxton Series”.  The books are written for the child with a disability, as well as, for the child who asks: ‘What’s wrong with my friend?’

They teach nothing is ‘wrong’, there are just differences and that is perfectly okay!  The books encourage reading, while teaching tolerance, kindness, understanding, acceptance, and more.

The Invitation Series

Our middle school series (which is also growing—currently at 3) has a disability backdrop.  A college professor commented on the first book, “Margie, this is not a ‘feel good’ book, but it’s real.  We need these!”  They became required reading for students studying to become elementary teachers.

There are plenty of other books available for young children, teens, and even a novel, with other resource material, as well.

Thanks for visiting!

I hope you like it here! 

Margie Harding

authormargieharding@gmail.com

www.margieharding.com

http://margiejharding.blogspot.com

My Statement of Faith

I am a born again Christian, who believes in a Triune God: God the Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit who dwells within as a seal of our relationship with Christ and empowers believers to carry out the purpose of his will. I believe Jesus as God's son came in the flesh as a newborn, human child, was crucified and on the third day rose again. One day Jesus will return to rapture his church and the Earth will be faced with a great tribulation. I believe in the Bible as the infallible word of God. Salvation is not earned but given by grace alone through Jesus Christ. Those that know Jesus personally will live with him forever; those who don't, face eternity in a place called Hell.