Special Books by Special Kids
Interviews that are intended to create a more inclusive world.
SBSK started when I was a teacher for students with disabilities. Originally intended to be a book written by my students, SBSK soon grew to be video interviews of disabled people of all ages and diagnoses. Since our beginning in 2015, I have interviewed hundreds of people across the world while providing over $2,000,000 to those featured on this channel through a combination of grants and fundraising.
Starting in 2015, SBSK is now a 501(c)3 organization that seeks to normalize the diversity of the human condition under the pillars of honesty, respect, mindfulness, positivity and collaboration. This multi-media movement supports the acceptance and inclusion of all members of the neurodivergent/disability community.
-Chris
Special Books by Special Kids
As the summer winds to a close and Fall begins, I'm grateful for the friends and bonds I continue to make in year 11 of SBSK. I hope these videos make the world a kinder place and equip the viewer with the confidence that they can be inclusive.
1 week ago | [YT] | 33,035
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Special Books by Special Kids
Took the week off to head to the mountains and learn the banjo... Something I've wanted to do for years! SBSK will be back with our normal weekly uploads next week. Thanks for your support and love!
3 weeks ago | [YT] | 13,668
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Special Books by Special Kids
Michelle passed away this week. She was a bright light in this world and a beloved part of our community. Michelle was known for bringing a smile to the face of anyone fortunate enough to meet her. I know I will always remember the many laughs we shared together. My deepest condolences to her family and friends who loved her so much. Rest in Peace Michelle, you will be missed.
1 month ago | [YT] | 43,873
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Special Books by Special Kids
Yesterday, I shared an update interview with Mollie. She lives with a stutter and in her original interview from 2018 Mollie had just finished high school and we discussed the challenges and social anxiety that can come with stuttering. In yesterday's update interview, we learned that Mollie is completing law school and almost a lawyer! She shared with me that her original SBSK interview and our community's positive comments played a big part in her having the confidence to apply to law school. Thank you to everyone who continues to love and support those featured on this channel.
1 month ago | [YT] | 10,616
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Special Books by Special Kids
Yesterday I shared Robby's story. He is an autistic teen with Intermittent Explosive Disorder, a condition that causes sudden, uncontrollable episodes of rage. Multiple times a day, he experiences intense anger that can lead to physical aggression, threats, and property damage. Robby also lives with a rare genetic condition of which there are only two known cases, and the other person also experiences explosive anger. Although this is an incredibly small sample size, there is the possibility that this genetic condition makes it very difficult to manage anger. Robby told me that he hopes his story reminds others to never judge a book by the cover. Thanks for sharing your story with us, Robby!
2 months ago | [YT] | 16,321
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Special Books by Special Kids
Yesterday, I shared Ryan's story. In just 20 hours our community has raised $11,800 to help with his medical expenses.
Ryan was born with an ultra-rare genetic disorder called Xp21 deletion syndrome, which leaves him unable to walk or talk and in need of 24/7 caregiving. His single father, John, couldn’t find a daycare equipped to handle Ryan’s complex medical needs and was forced to leave his career to care for his son. For the past seven years, the two have faced unimaginable challenges together, but John says it is worth it to see Ryan smile.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this family's fundraiser. I am so grateful that our community continues to show up for the people featured on SBSK even after 10 years. Thank you for your incredible kindness and generosity!
3 months ago | [YT] | 10,546
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Special Books by Special Kids
Yesterday I shared Daelyn's interview. She is one of only a few people in recorded history diagnosed with her ultra-rare genetic condition, a disorder of the FBXW11 gene. She communicates by repeating lines from her favorite TV shows and movies and has developed a language that’s uniquely her own.
Daelyn has learned to communicate by practicing speech on her pets, which includes horses and a kangaroo. It was amazing to watch her talk to these animals and made me reflect on the benefits of an animal/human bond. These animals provide Daelyn a judgement free zone to practice speech without the anxiety that can come from human to human interaction. They allow her to practice while receiving unconditional acceptance and love. I hope you enjoyed watching Daelyn's interview as much as I did recording it!
3 months ago | [YT] | 14,557
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Special Books by Special Kids
This summer and fall, I’ll be traveling across the northeastern USA and parts of Canada to film new interviews for SBSK. I’ll be visiting Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Montreal, and Toronto. If you live near any of these cities and want to share your story on SBSK, I’d love to hear from you. This opportunity is open to people of all backgrounds, ages, and disabilities.
To apply:
1. Email me at interview@sbsk.org
2. Include a paragraph or two about your story (and a photo if you’d like)
3. Use your city and state/province as the subject line of the email (e.g., Boston, MA). This helps me stay organized.
I’m so excited to make new friends on the road as we kick off the 11th year of Special Books by Special Kids!
3 months ago | [YT] | 7,917
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Special Books by Special Kids
Yesterday, I shared Lara and Lucas' interview. Lara and Lucas are siblings diagnosed with Cockayne syndrome, a rare and fatal disease that causes rapid aging. This is caused by a mutation to the proteins in the body that are responsible for cell repair. Due to this, the organs of those who are diagnosed with Cockayne syndrome age rapidly. Lara and Lucas' parents told me that their family focuses on the present day, living with joy, and creating positive and meaningful memories. One thing I've learned through SBSK is that there is no guarantee of what tomorrow will look like, so it is absolutely vital to enjoy the present moment. It was a pleasure meeting you, Lara and Lucas!
3 months ago | [YT] | 15,920
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Special Books by Special Kids
Yesterday, I shared Ali's interview. This was the 600th video on this YouTube channel. I never would have imagined when this started that we would one day surpass such a gigantic milestone. Thank you for your support over the last decade. I hope these videos have made the world a little bit more kind and inclusive.
4 months ago | [YT] | 17,840
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