It’s summer-time in the Northern Hemisphere, and that means time off, maybe camps, family vacations and even a little down-time for reading. Here we’ve compiled a few of the best diabetes books for family reading. If you happen to be in the Southern Hemisphere – don’t fret. These books will take the chill off any day.
Reading with children/adolescents is a great way to focus on creativity, critical thinking and reflect on the trajectory of stories. Looking at how characters express themselves and problem-solve help us all think about our own challenges.
We’ve also included one or two guides for parents to read.
The Ups and Downs of Audrey May
by Missy Mareau Garcia (Author) (2019)
IN this book, nine year old Audrey May knows that life can be full of changes. She’s traveled all over the world with her Dad who works on movies, but she’s never been to a school with other kids. She has no idea that starting a new school will be much easier than finding out she has Type 1 Diabetes. Thankfully she won’t face it alone, she has the love of her parents and her crazy little sister to get her through the ups and downs.
I’m Still Me, Cant You See? Diabetes Won’t Stop Me
by Valorie Hergenreter (Author), Mariann Asbury (Illustrator) (2016)
I’m Still Me—Can’t You See? is a book that talks about diabetes through the eyes of a child conquering diabetes. The rhythmic story along with the imaginative illustrations will entertain and empower your child. The last page is dedicated to families who have the power to triumph over the hardest of situations and give hope for a healthy future.
Year One with Type One: A True Story of a Boy with Type 1 Diabetes
by Mike Suarez (Author), Olsi Tola (Illustrator) (2018)
Through Andrew’s eyes, you’ll get a first-hand look at the symptoms, diagnosis, and everyday routine of type one diabetes. At 4 years old, he manages his new responsibility while still managing to enjoy everything a kid his age should. The fun rhyme and playful scenes make this book accessible, not only to diagnosed children, but to family members, friends, and classmates looking for an inside look into T1D.
Highs & Lows of Type 1 Diabetes: The Ultimate Guide for Teens and Young Adults
by Patrick McAllister (Author), Stuart A. Weinzimer M.D. (Foreword) (2018)
Valuable tips, tricks, and advice from a veteran young adult with Type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes (T1D) can be a daunting diagnosis, especially for a young kid or a teen. Diagnosed with T1D at age twelve, McAllister’s life changed forever, and he faced an uncertain future of insulin shots, diet regulations, and high school. If only I had a roadmap, he thought. So, years after he learned things the hard way, he decided to write one.
Diabetes Snacks, Treats, and Easy Eats for Kids: 150 Recipes for the Foods Kids Really Like to Eat
by Barbara Grunes (Author), R.D. Linda R. Yoakam (Contributor) (2017)
Grunes’s goal is to help all kids enjoy food that is good for them—even if they have diabetes. Each recipe includes the nutritional information readers need, whether they count carbs or use the exchange method. With recipes like Pizza Puffs, Spud Pancakes, Chicken Fajitas, Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes, and Fruit Turnovers, this book proves that everyone can enjoy familiar and delicious food together. After all, it’s not about “good,” “bad,” or “forbidden” foods—it’s about readers feeding their families sensibly.
The Type 1 Life: A Road Map for Parents of Children with Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes
by Jessica Freeman (Author) (2018)
The Type 1 Life helps parents understand how to: tell friends and family about your child’s diagnosis, navigate school and sports with diabetes, foster independence and self-management, deal with the mental and emotional side of having Type 1 diabetes, and prepare your child for college and adulthood.
Bright Spots & Landmines: The Diabetes Guide I Wish Someone Had Handed Me
by Adam Brown (Author), Kelly L. Close (Foreword) (2017)
In this guide, Adam Brown shares the food, mindset, exercise, and sleep strategies that have had the biggest positive impact on his diabetes. Bright Spots & Landmines is filled with diabetes tips, questions, and shortcuts, including what to eat to minimize blood sugar swings; helpful strategies to feel less stressed, guilty, and burned out; and simple ways to improve exercise and sleep. For people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
No Days Off: My Life with Type 1 Diabetes and Journey to the NHL
by Max Domi (Author), Jim Lang (Contributor) (available October 29, 2019)
Max Domi was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 12. As he struggled to find his new normal, Max slowly began to realize that overcoming his disease demanded the same qualities that it took to be a hockey player—mental and physical toughness, maturity, and the love and care of family and friends. If managing his disease was going to demand that Max be stronger, more prepared, and more disciplined than anyone else, then he wouldn’t just be good at those things: he’d be the best. He’d do whatever it took to move him closer to his dream of playing in the NHL.
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