Susan Laughs succeeds through its rhythmic couplets and the relatable portrayal of a child experiencing universal emotions and occasional mischief. The final illustration offers a perspective shift that prompts children to reexamine the entire story. Books in this family share expressive artwork and a focus on everyday activities that emphasize commonality over difference.
Reach for this book when you want to nurture a child's understanding of physical differences or help them see that a person's equipment does not define their spirit. It is a powerful tool for building empathy in peers and providing a mirror for children who use mobility aids. Through simple, rhyming couplets and expressive illustrations, we see Susan experiencing a full range of childhood moments: she is brave and scared, messy and neat, joyful and grumpy. By focusing on her universal feelings and activities first, the story emphasizes her humanity. It is perfect for preschoolers and early elementary children, offering a gentle yet profound reminder that every child is just like everybody else, regardless of how they get around. You might choose this to celebrate a child's own identity or to prepare a class for a new friend who uses a wheelchair.
