International Rights

I Can, Too!

By: Karen Autio
Illustrated by: Laura Watson
  • ISBN 9781443190084, Paperback
  • 24 Pages | Ages 3 - 7

A wonderful story of new friendship between two children with diverse abilities.

Piper and Kayla love to move. They ride bikes, glide on ice, swoosh down mountains and much more —each in her own way. While Piper pedals her tricycle with her feet, Kayla uses her hands to move her trike forward. While Kayla coasts across the ice on a sled, Piper sails along on skates. Join Kayla and Piper as they play together, explore their world and make new friends.

The inspiration for I Can, Too! comes from the author’s daughter, who was born with spina bifida.  On a visit to the mall after her child received her first wheelchair, a young boy pointed, asking his mother, “Why is that girl in a wheelbarrow?” Karen welcomed questions so the unknown could be named and understood and children could get to know her daughter.

Shining a much-needed spotlight on kids who use special gear to navigate the world, I Can, Too! will delight readers of all abilities with its affirming story of inclusion, while also inviting readers to learn more about adaptive devices in the back matter.

Rights Sold

French (N. Amer.) – Éditions Scholastic

Selling Points

  • A story of inclusion and friendship with a focus on diverse abilities.
  • Normalizes the use of adaptive equipment for very young children. Back matter describes the equipment for young readers.
  • Features a strong, independent character with a physical disability.
  • Books about children with disabilities are in high demand.

Awards

  • Winner, The Word Awards - Books, General Market Fiction, Children, 2023
  • Short-listed, The Word Awards - Debra Fieguth Social Justice Award, 2023
  • Commended, Best Books for Kids and Teens, Canadian Children's Book Centre, 2023
  • Commended, CBC Kids Reads, 2023
  • Commended, TD Summer Reading Club, Top Recommended Read, 2023
  • Commended, OLA Best Bets, Picture Books, 2022

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