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"What I can be is up to me. Because, you see, I believe in me!"

What I Can Be Is Up To Me

With captivating storytelling and vibrant illustrations, this book takes young readers on a journey of self-discovery, highlighting that regardless of any challenges they may face, they have the power to choose who they want to be and what they can achieve.

All proceeds from the purchase of this book support Thriving Blind Academy programs for families raising children that are blind or visually impaired.



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cover of what I can be is up to me
on left the picture of alex in the book facing a crowd, holding a microphone.On right, alex and the other charaters in the book smiling togethe

Featuring L. Alexander Williams!

"I can be like Alex. I can be a leader too!"

LA Williams' character, Alex, inspires young readers to embrace their unique abilities and lead with confidence. Through his journey, he demonstrates that true leadership comes from valuing one's individuality and strengths. His story encourages children to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams with determination.

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"Being part of this groundbreaking book is an honor. From the beginning, I was enthused about participating in this project because I believe it's crucial for young minds to see that thriving in life is totally within reach. This book is more than basic kids stories; it's a paradigm-shifting message to every child (and most adults) that nothing is impossible. The most inspiring part? None of us fit the stereotypical mold. This collection highlights diverse paths to success, showing that our differences are our greatest strengths."    - L.A. Williams, III

LA Willams wearing a dark suit and Orange bowtie

L.A. Williams, III


This Book Does Good.

Every purchase of What I Can Be Is Up To Me directly supports the Thriving Blind Academy's mission to empower families raising children that are blind or visually impaired. By buying this book, you're not only empowering your own children or students, but also helping to end the illiteracy and unemployment crisis in the blind community.

In less than one year, thousands of children have been impacted by this book! Join the HEROES on our MISSION to create a brighter future where every blind child can thrive and achieve their dreams!



Buy the Book!
430
FAMILIES

 Parents are investing in this book's empowering message of inclusion.

11

COUNTRIES

From the USA to Australia and the Netherlands, the love for this book is global.

65
CLASSROOMS

Teachers are inspiring and empowering their students with this fun book.

170

BOOKS DONATED

Children around the world are seeing disability differently.

This Book Is a Catalyst for Change.

Inclusive literature transforms children's worldviews, fostering empathy and paving the way for a more compassionate society.

  • Fostering Empathy and Understanding: Inclusive literature helps children understand and appreciate diverse perspectives and experiences. By reading about characters from different backgrounds, abilities, and cultures, children develop empathy and learn to respect and value differences.

  • Promoting Self-Identity and Confidence: When children see themselves represented in books, it validates their experiences and boosts their self-esteem. Inclusive literature ensures that all children feel seen and heard, fostering a positive self-identity and confidence in who they are

  • Encouraging Social and Emotional Learning: Inclusive stories often address various social and emotional issues, such as bullying, friendship, and overcoming challenges. These narratives provide children with tools to navigate their own emotions and relationships, promoting emotional intelligence and social skills.

  • Enhancing Cognitive and Academic Development: Exposure to a wide range of stories and perspectives enhances critical thinking and comprehension skills. Children learn to analyze different viewpoints, recognize biases, and appreciate the richness of diverse narratives, contributing to their overall cognitive and academic growth.

  • Building an Inclusive Society: By reading inclusive literature, children learn the importance of inclusivity and equality from a young age. This awareness helps shape their attitudes and behaviors, encouraging them to become more inclusive, open-minded, and accepting individuals who contribute positively to a diverse society.

Meet the Author

    Kristin Smedley headsh

    Kristin Smedley

    Co-Founder, Thriving Blind Academy

    CEO, Curing Retinal Blindness Foundation

    Kristin Smedley is a TEDx speaker and author of the best selling book Thriving Blind:Stories of Real People Succeeding Without Sight and NEW children's book, What I Can Be Is Up To Me. Kristin is Co-Founder of Thriving Blind Academy. She has two sons that are blind due to CRB1-LCA and a sighted daughter. All three of her children are thriving - and out of the house at college and the workforce!

Meet the Illustrator

    womn with long brown hair smiling

    Kim Crothers

    Artist 

    Kim has always wanted to pursue art and design from a very young age. She attended Mississippi State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in graphic design. Kim is also visually impaired. She was diagnosed during early childhood with ADOA (Autosomal Dominant Optic Atrophy), a rare eye disease that causes progressive and irreversible vision loss in both eyes. Kim and her family reside in Mississippi.

About the mission this book supports:

Thriving Blind Academy is a 501c3 non profit corporation. All donations fund programs for families and individuals impacted by blindness to thrive in school, work and life.

Contact Us at [email protected]