Book Review: I Just Am by Bryan and Tom Lambke

 

This is the story of a young man who has Down syndrome. He’s a happy, contributing member of society and wants to tell you that he is as normal as you are.
I have often asked the question, “Just what is normal?” And I’m not sure anyone really knows the answer. In my life, I feel abnormal is more usual.


Bryan feels his disability really makes no difference and he’s as normal as everyone else – and I think he’s right!
He was born with an extra chromosome, which makes him look a bit different and makes his brain functions a bit slow. He’s still able to graduate from school, participate in sports and now he’s working two jobs. He hopes one day to marry, he has girlfriends.
The book is filled with photos – almost all of them reflecting love and happiness in Bryan and the people he’s around.
This book is a celebration of his life. You see him when he’s a small child and watch him grow up. His whole family surrounds him with love and he’s thrived in their care.
I’ve known several people with Down syndrome, and they are very sincere, work very hard on their jobs, are direct and honest in their comments and questions, and are happy to be treated like other people. They chat with you, do whatever they do the best they can – no matter what it is.
People need to learn to look beyond physical attributes, look beyond color, look beyond the differences to the core of the person – who they really are and how much you have in common with them.
If you disregard someone with Down syndrome because you think they’re strange or make you uncomfortable, it’s your loss. They’re wonderful people.
And Bryan’s story will help you understand that. It reads up quickly and the photos will make a large impact on you.
If you don’t know about Down’s syndrome, do read this book. Knowledge is power.

Hardcover: 112 pages
Publisher: Five Star Publications, Inc. (January 10, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1589850203
Book Review written by Jo Ann Hokola, butyoudontlooksick.com 2009