The Book About James is an inspirational nonfiction work written by Julia Gray. Gray had already given birth to nine children, eight of whom survived, when her last child, James, was born with Down Syndrome. She was appalled and confused, and didn't really know how she would cope, but her faith and her husband helped her begin to accept what was now her reality. Little did she know that she would find her child with Down Syndrome to be charming and lovable, and enhanced by that extra chromosome. In the series of articles that comprise this book, Gray shares from her first moments with James through the stages of his growth as he learns to walk and talk, and goes on through kindergarten into primary school.

Julia Gray's inspirational nonfiction work, The Book About James, is brutally honest and sincere. She unabashedly shares both her dismay and doubts at James' diagnosis and the tale of her growing admiration and love for her enhanced child. I've had the pleasure of getting to know some young adults with Down Syndrome and knew I wanted to read this book when I saw it. Each of these articles is filled with warmth and love, and the collection forms a touching and humorous love story about an exceptional child. I think my favorite part of The Book About James discusses his elopement issues. While they were obviously not something a parent would want to have to deal with, the image of James watching, waiting and calculating the exact moment to bolt will keep me smiling for a long time. The Book About James is a marvelous collection of articles, and it's most highly recommended.

The Book About James by Julia Gray is a candid and personal story regarding Down Syndrome and how it impacts everyday life. Gray begins the book by honestly describing her preconceived notions and prejudices against people with disabilities, and how she had to adjust her thought process when her own child was born with Down Syndrome. Gray recounts how she coped with this situation – initially with fear and despair – but she quickly learned a valuable lesson about people with disabilities from her own son. Baby James quickly wins and charms those around him - even to this day - with his sunny disposition and innocent nature, showing the family that a person with Down Syndrome is much more than just a person born with a genetic chromosome disorder. Gray describes life with James, from birth all the way to school age, describing the difficulties James faces – socially, physically and mentally - but also the joy he brings to their lives.

In The Book About James, Julia Gray does not hold back. She presents an honest and personal account, describing to readers her lowest moments, most embarrassing and hurtful thoughts, and the difficulties of raising a mentally disabled child in today’s world. But Gray doesn’t focus on the challenges alone; she gives the reader hope and inspiration with numerous personal accounts of how James impacted not only her life for the better, but also those around him, including his siblings, teachers and neighbors. I think this book is beneficial not only to parents of a Down Syndrome child but also to anyone wishing to learn more about living life with a mentally disabled person.