
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is asking questions about love, dating, and disability, or expressing feelings of being different. This collection of true stories, curated by YouTubers Shane and Hannah Burcaw, explores the real lives of interabled couples. It moves beyond inspirational tropes to show the funny, messy, and deeply loving reality of their relationships. The book tackles themes of identity, empathy, and resilience, making it perfect for teens 14 and up. It provides vital representation and opens the door for conversations about ableism, intimacy, and the many valid ways love can look.
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Sign in to write a reviewIncludes discussions of medical challenges and societal judgment.
The central topic is physical disability and the ableism couples face from the outside world. The approach is direct, personal, and secular, using firsthand accounts. The book frankly discusses mature themes including sexuality, intimacy, and the logistics of personal care within a romantic partnership. The resolution in each story is realistic and hopeful, grounding the narrative in the strength and validity of the featured relationships.
A teen aged 14 to 18 who follows Shane and Hannah online, has a disability themselves and is curious about romantic futures, or is simply interested in social justice and learning about experiences different from their own. It's also for the teen who appreciates candid memoirs and authentic, voice-driven nonfiction.
Parents should be prepared for the book's directness regarding sexuality and the physical aspects of relationships. While not graphic, the content is honest and intended for a mature teen audience. Previewing a chapter or two may help a parent frame a conversation, but the book is designed to be accessible and can be read cold by a teen. A parent overhears their teen expressing anxiety about dating because of their own disability or chronic illness. Alternatively, a parent might see their teen watching videos from creators like Squirmy & Grubs and want to provide a deeper, more nuanced resource for their interest.
A younger teen (14-15) will likely connect with the humor, the stories about meeting and dating, and the frustration of being stared at in public. An older teen (16-18) will more deeply appreciate the nuances of long-term partnership, discussions of ableism as a systemic issue, and the frank talks about intimacy and building a family.
This book's key differentiator is its anthology format. By showcasing a multitude of couples and experiences, it avoids presenting a single, monolithic 'interabled story'. It gives equal voice to the disabled and non-disabled partners, offering a 360-degree view of the relationship. The authors' established, trusted voice lends it immediate credibility and appeal.
This YA nonfiction book is a collection of essays and interviews from diverse interabled couples, curated and framed by the personal experiences of authors Shane and Hannah Burcaw (known online as Squirmy & Grubs). The stories cover the full spectrum of a relationship: meeting, first dates, intimacy, navigating societal prejudice, dealing with medical realities, and building a shared life. It's a frank, humorous, and heartfelt look at love that actively dismantles stereotypes about disability.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.