Join Alexander on a heartfelt journey as he grapples with the challenges of living with sickle cell disease, an invisible illness that sets him apart from his peers.
"I wish I could do things faster, Mom," Alexander said.
"Maybe the other kids wouldn't pick on me anymore."
Bullied by his peers, who don't understand his condition, Alexander struggles to stand up for himself. As readers follow Alexander's challenges and triumphs, they'll gain insight into the experiences of those living with invisible illnesses.
In this inclusion book for kids, readers will find
- lessons about empathy, respect, and compassion,
- why it's important to understand the experiences of those with disabilities,
- guided questions to help them engage with Alexander's story on a personal level, and
- a deeper understanding of diversity.
Perfect for parents, educators, and children alike, Don't Call Me Slowpoke is a compassionate and thought-provoking exploration of being different, being enough, and standing up for oneself.
Adejoke (Ade) Lolade Ejiofor, originally from Nigeria and now residing in Minnesota, is a passionate advocate for sickle cell awareness and an acclaimed author. Her 2021 book Travel Bravely, which chronicles her son's journey with sickle cell disease, earned her the prestigious Nautilus Book Award in 2022.
In her latest work, Don't Call Me Slowpoke, Adejoke continues to shine a light on the challenges faced by individuals with sickle cell disease, addressing the stigma and misconceptions surrounding this invisible illness.
In addition to her writing, Adejoke is the founder of My African American World, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about sickle cell disease. She is also a partner with the Sickle Cell Consortium, furthering her advocacy on a larger scale.
Adejoke holds a master's degree in business administration with a specialization in project management, as well as a bachelor's degree in mass communication. When she's not immersed in her advocacy work, Adejoke enjoys traveling the world with her family, cherishing each moment as an opportunity for connection and discovery.
