Puffin acquires journalist Cathy Reay’s 'empowering' How To Be Disabled and Proud

Puffin has acquired How to Be Disabled and Proud, journalist Cathy Reay’s "empowering guide" for children.

Senior commissioning editor Phoebe Jascourt bought UK and Commonwealth rights from Megan Staunton at Bergstrom Studio, with commissioning editor Meg Osborne editing the book, which will be published in paperback, e-book and audio on 27th March 2025.

"Cathy Reay draws on her own experiences of growing up disabled to inspire young readers to embrace (or at least, feel kinda sorta okay with) their disabled identity," the synopsis says. "From dealing with the transition from primary to secondary school, to finding friends that ‘get it’, setting important boundaries and gaining the confidence to stand up for their rights, Cathy examines the challenges faced by disabled children, with comforting and practical advice."

Reay said: “When I was a kid, a girl that just wanted to fit in, I had mixed-up feelings around my disabled identity. I wrote How to Be Disabled and Proud to help kids navigate being disabled in an often inaccessible and ableist world, supporting them with what to expect, empowering them with tools to get what they need and reassuring them that their bodies and minds are not a problem that need to be fixed. It’s the book I needed as a child, and the book my children will get to lean on as they grow up.”

Osborne added: “Puffin’s mission is to publish a book for every child, everywhere. There currently aren’t many books out there doing what Cathy’s book does: it speaks to disabled children in an honest way, without shying away from the tough bits, and with plenty of warmth, humour and practical advice that readers and their families can refer to as they grow. This book is a much-needed resource both for disabled children and for their parents and carers, and a vital addition to Puffin’s expert and voice-led non-fiction list.”