Deborah Menenberg
Uniquely Stella
At the end of World War II, 19-year-old Stella leaves her job at a war factory in Chicago to embark on a journey of unexpected consequences. Boarding a train headed west, she meets her new best friend, a young black woman. Together they learn the complexities and depth of discrimination and prejudice. These lessons fuel Stella's poignant and powerful journey that truly begins with the birth of her daughter with Down Syndrome.During an era when handicapped children were kept hidden, institutionalized, or even allowed to die, Stella refuses this mindset, defying conventional thinking.
Facing her own fears and denial, she confronts society's exclusion of those who are different. She must accept her husband's desertion due to his guilt over fathering a disabled child. Even her supporters struggle with what to do and how to help. With stubborn determination, Stella rejects what she is expected to do when she realizes what she must do.
When eventually confronting a school system that can legally refuse to educate those that don't fit in, Stella becomes intent on giving voice to an ignored population.Inspired by a true story, Uniquely Stella combines love, humor, and grace into a tale reminding us that the policies and laws governing us should always be guided by a passion for equality.
How does a woman become courageous?
When does she learn to be formidable? How does she become powerful enough to make a difference and change the world? This is the story of Stella, inspired by the life of my mother, LaVerne.
Donna in the log house.
"The dialog was both entertaining and heartbreaking. As the parent of a disabled child, I was completely unaware of the history behind the services people with disabilities receive today."
-Michaelene (Mickey) Oakley
"This lovely book took me on a trip down memory lane - If I was still a teacher I would make it required reading"
- Jean Edwards, President Emertia at Edwards Center, INC
Stella sees people for their souls. So, when she befriends a young Black woman on her way out West in 1946, there's a lot she must unpack in order to wrap her mind around other's prejudiced objections. As she subverts the twisted norms of the time and unashamedly adores her baby born with Down Syndrome, the privilege she's enjoyed shatters. If you like bold characters, bouts of bright humor, and struggle inspired by real events, then you'll love this heart-warming historical fiction.