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What's Wrong with Timmy?
What is the response when a child points out that a disabled child or adult looks 'different'? Shriver tells the story of Kate, who finds that making friends with a mentally retarded boy helps her learn that the two of them have a lot in common.
Hardcover
First published October 16, 2001
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290 people want to read
About the author
Maria Shriver
62 books259 followersMaria Owings Shriver is an American journalist, activist, author of six best-selling books, and former First Lady of California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 10, 2018
This book is on my daughter's suggested reading list for Kindergarten. As a parent of two neurodiverse children (Autistic and ADHD) and being neurodiverse myself (ADHD) I am appalled by this book. Here are my problems with it:
1. The title, even if taken in the context of an innocent question from a child, reinforces the stigma that there is something wrong with individuals who have special needs, or are different. Titling the book this way is essentially bating, or leading children to the conclusion that there is something wrong with individuals who are different than they are.
2. The use of a term a vast majority of individuals with disabilities would consider offensive, even if medically relevant at the time of publishing shows poor taste. Retarded didn't magically suddenly become offensive, it has been offensive for far longer than when this book was originally published, and shows a disconnect the author must have between the cause she has chosen to championship and the desires of the people she is trying to gain acceptance for.
3. Faith based over-simplification. Aside from the fact that religion has no place in public education unless it is being taught as a class for children to understand and respect the various belief systems people hold, using the prostrated "God Made him that way" is not acceptable. It's a cop out parents use so they don't have to have a difficult conversation with their children, or educate themselves, or even just admit "I don't have all the answers, so let's research together." Saying "God Made Him that way" is reinforcing willful ignorance, and waiving the white flag of surrender instead of pursuing knowledge and truth.
1. The title, even if taken in the context of an innocent question from a child, reinforces the stigma that there is something wrong with individuals who have special needs, or are different. Titling the book this way is essentially bating, or leading children to the conclusion that there is something wrong with individuals who are different than they are.
2. The use of a term a vast majority of individuals with disabilities would consider offensive, even if medically relevant at the time of publishing shows poor taste. Retarded didn't magically suddenly become offensive, it has been offensive for far longer than when this book was originally published, and shows a disconnect the author must have between the cause she has chosen to championship and the desires of the people she is trying to gain acceptance for.
3. Faith based over-simplification. Aside from the fact that religion has no place in public education unless it is being taught as a class for children to understand and respect the various belief systems people hold, using the prostrated "God Made him that way" is not acceptable. It's a cop out parents use so they don't have to have a difficult conversation with their children, or educate themselves, or even just admit "I don't have all the answers, so let's research together." Saying "God Made Him that way" is reinforcing willful ignorance, and waiving the white flag of surrender instead of pursuing knowledge and truth.
October 24, 2014
This book mesmerized my four-year-old in the waiting room at the doctor's office. It was carefully written in language that she could completely understand. This will really help her make the mental connection to the special needs of her friends with disabilities. I was impressed with how the author made such a complicated subject (that always leads down a rabbit hole of existential questions from my preschooler) into something so simple that even my two-year-old understood.
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October 22, 2013This book is about befriending a child with a disability from the perspective of a little girl. The narrator, Kate, hesitantly befriends Timmy, who has a developmental disability, after her mother explains that he is a lot more like her than she thinks. After Kate begins to talk and play with Timmy, she realizes how good of a person he is and feels foolish that she ever looked down on him.
The author, Maria Shriver, addresses a child's familiar reaction to people with disabilities (ex. "What's wrong with Timmy?") and presents that children with disabilities want the same things as children without disabilities, such as friendship and acceptance. Although Maria Shriver does not have a disability, I appreciate that she has a personal connection to those with special needs (her parents were involved in the Special Olympics). The illustrator, Sandra Speidel, compliments this heartwarming story with her simple, painted illustrations.
As a teacher, I would use this story to teach the importance of acceptance and that every child is unique. Also, I would use this book to expose my students to developmental disabilities and explain that although some children may have different qualities than others, it does not mean that there is something "wrong" with them.
The author, Maria Shriver, addresses a child's familiar reaction to people with disabilities (ex. "What's wrong with Timmy?") and presents that children with disabilities want the same things as children without disabilities, such as friendship and acceptance. Although Maria Shriver does not have a disability, I appreciate that she has a personal connection to those with special needs (her parents were involved in the Special Olympics). The illustrator, Sandra Speidel, compliments this heartwarming story with her simple, painted illustrations.
As a teacher, I would use this story to teach the importance of acceptance and that every child is unique. Also, I would use this book to expose my students to developmental disabilities and explain that although some children may have different qualities than others, it does not mean that there is something "wrong" with them.
January 18, 2017
An exceptional book teaching about the acceptance of special needs children.
August 9, 2021
This is one of the kindest book I've ever read. I think anyone in the world should read it. Definitely five stars
April 3, 2015
Genre: Religious (realistic) Fiction
While likely she doesn't know what words like "disabled" "special" or " impaired" mean, Kate recognizes that there are some children and adults who are "different." When she observes a child her age playing in the park she has many questions about the way that he speaks, behaves, and physically appears. Noticing her mother talking to the boy's mother, she seizes the opportunity to bluntly ask (as children often do) "What is wrong with Timmy?"--right in front of Timmy's mother. Her mother sees this as a teachable moment and sits with her to discuss noticeable differences while emphasizing the similarities between her daughter and children who have needs like Timmy's. The mother manages to explain a wide variety of disabilities and the realities of the people who have them. Kate learns that she shouldn't fear Timmy or be uncomfortable around him because he's different. She learns from her mother the importance of treating Timmy just like any other kid--because he is like any other kid--and focusing on what he CAN do rather than what he can't. It is because of her mother's teachable moment that Kate is able to relate to Timmy and they begin a friendship by the end of the story.
This book provides young children with a variety of subjects to question and consider however, the ultra slow pacing of the story and soft pale drawings may not hold their attention long. I included this story as a realistic fiction in a set of books designed to promote empathy and understanding of people who live with disabilities because the book clearly shares the goals of my set. I was only disappointed that the story was slow and it took a long time for the plot to develop. The text appeared more concerned with delivering the message then with the plot/story line. Rather than implying or revealing appropriate ways to address and engage with playmates like Timmy, the author chose to directly answer questions via Q&A between Kate and her mother. This tale may need to be told in small increments with plenty of discussion in between. The tale is told from a Christian perspective( that should be kept in mind if introducing the book in a public school).
While likely she doesn't know what words like "disabled" "special" or " impaired" mean, Kate recognizes that there are some children and adults who are "different." When she observes a child her age playing in the park she has many questions about the way that he speaks, behaves, and physically appears. Noticing her mother talking to the boy's mother, she seizes the opportunity to bluntly ask (as children often do) "What is wrong with Timmy?"--right in front of Timmy's mother. Her mother sees this as a teachable moment and sits with her to discuss noticeable differences while emphasizing the similarities between her daughter and children who have needs like Timmy's. The mother manages to explain a wide variety of disabilities and the realities of the people who have them. Kate learns that she shouldn't fear Timmy or be uncomfortable around him because he's different. She learns from her mother the importance of treating Timmy just like any other kid--because he is like any other kid--and focusing on what he CAN do rather than what he can't. It is because of her mother's teachable moment that Kate is able to relate to Timmy and they begin a friendship by the end of the story.
This book provides young children with a variety of subjects to question and consider however, the ultra slow pacing of the story and soft pale drawings may not hold their attention long. I included this story as a realistic fiction in a set of books designed to promote empathy and understanding of people who live with disabilities because the book clearly shares the goals of my set. I was only disappointed that the story was slow and it took a long time for the plot to develop. The text appeared more concerned with delivering the message then with the plot/story line. Rather than implying or revealing appropriate ways to address and engage with playmates like Timmy, the author chose to directly answer questions via Q&A between Kate and her mother. This tale may need to be told in small increments with plenty of discussion in between. The tale is told from a Christian perspective( that should be kept in mind if introducing the book in a public school).
October 30, 2012
This book, written by Maria Shriver, tells the tale of Kate and Timmy, who met one day in the park through their mothers who are friends. Kate notices Timmy dribbling his ball and can just tell that he is different. She says that he has odd features like an unusual face and a limp. Kate is moved to ask her mother many questions about Timmy and why he is the way he is. Her mother explains that Timmy may be different but that he is still a person just like everyone else. Kate decides to go talk to Timmy and she finds out that they have many things in common. Kate also helps some of her friends to realize that Timmy isn't so different through a game of basketball. In the end Kate decides that there is nothing wrong with Timmy, he is just different like everyone else.
The first thing I noticed about this story was the description of Timmy. Timmy is never labeled with any specific disability besides mental retardation but he has physical issues like a "flat face" and a limp that are not in themselves characteristics of mental retardation. It makes me curious if the author had another disability in mind.
As a teacher I might use this book to illustrate that it is ok to be curious about individuals with disabilities and to not be afraid to ask questions.
Maria Shriver is the first former first lady of California. Shriver's mother founded the Special Olympics and Shriver herself is very involved with many groups that benefit individuals with special needs.
*Note: This book does have religious connotations so I would consider that before presenting it to a class*
The first thing I noticed about this story was the description of Timmy. Timmy is never labeled with any specific disability besides mental retardation but he has physical issues like a "flat face" and a limp that are not in themselves characteristics of mental retardation. It makes me curious if the author had another disability in mind.
As a teacher I might use this book to illustrate that it is ok to be curious about individuals with disabilities and to not be afraid to ask questions.
Maria Shriver is the first former first lady of California. Shriver's mother founded the Special Olympics and Shriver herself is very involved with many groups that benefit individuals with special needs.
*Note: This book does have religious connotations so I would consider that before presenting it to a class*
April 11, 2017
"If anyone ever asks me 'Whats wrong with Timmy?' I'm going to smile and say 'Why nothing...nothing at all!" This is the story of a young and curious girl named Kate who sees a boy Timmy playing basketball. She noticed that some thing are different about Timmy and asks her mom about him, it turns out that Timmy was born disabled. Kate's mother also teaches Kate that God creates everyone differently and that no matter what, always be kind and inclusive to others. While Kate was scared at first talking with Timmy for the first time, she realized that he is more similar to her than different. She starts to feel more comfortable and becomes close friends with Timmy.
This was probably the most touching children's book I have ever read because this is an issue that still exists today. Though I am not a parent, I'm sure it isn't easy having to explain to children how others are different because of their mental capacity, challenges, or disabilities. This book is such a relatable story as Kate asks questions of why is Timmy different and what is wrong with him, because these are questions that kids ask their parents today. I remember having these conversations as a kid with my own mother, and she taught me exactly what Kate's mom taught her.
I give this a 5 star rating. It may be long and very descriptive but I think that this is very relatable, the feelings and questions children may have about children with special needs and can even help teach parents how to communicate with their children about this.
This was probably the most touching children's book I have ever read because this is an issue that still exists today. Though I am not a parent, I'm sure it isn't easy having to explain to children how others are different because of their mental capacity, challenges, or disabilities. This book is such a relatable story as Kate asks questions of why is Timmy different and what is wrong with him, because these are questions that kids ask their parents today. I remember having these conversations as a kid with my own mother, and she taught me exactly what Kate's mom taught her.
I give this a 5 star rating. It may be long and very descriptive but I think that this is very relatable, the feelings and questions children may have about children with special needs and can even help teach parents how to communicate with their children about this.
October 24, 2017
In this realistic fiction book readers meet a young girl, Kate, her mother, and Timmy, a boy with a developmental disability. The whole story is based around Kate overcoming her stereotypes about people with disabilities. I think this book is great for explaining to children that there is nothing "scary" about people who may look or act different than you, whether they have a disability or not. The author, Maria Shriver, uses her own experience with working for rights for people with disabilities to piece together a storyline that children can truly wrap their minds around. This book teaches empathy and understanding for people with disabilities instead of pity. The plot develops from the beginning with a timid Kate and a misunderstood Timmy and eventually concludes with Kate discovering that an open mind for all people can lead to great friendships. What I find best about this book is that Timmy is not portrayed stereotypically as feeble or "weird", but he is shown as able bodied and lively just like any other child. My only critique about this book are the illustrations. They are beautiful pastels, and they portray the features of the characters. However, they do not do a good job of making the in-depth plot come alive as well as they could. Overall this book has a great storyline which teaches children the power of an open mind.
February 18, 2016
Found in my library's collection, so naturally I had to check it out. Shriver's family is huge in terms of their Special Olympics participation, so I appreciate the fact that she wrote a book regarding empathy and ability for children. It really all starts with parents. If you make sure and teach your children that other children deserve understanding, answer their questions honestly, and make an effort to encourage inclusiveness, it can go a long way. Lately, it's discouraging to read the number of blog posts online from parents of children with special needs that explain their frustrations with schools that purposely find ways to exclude their children from activities and events. That attitude will drift down to students as well, so it's vital not to let that happen.
That said, I'm only giving the book 3 stars, because I tend to feel negatively about sentiments such as "God made Timmy the way he is because he has a plan for all of us." Considering Timmy's trials and tribulations primarily stem from discrimination from others, this is an awfully cruel plan, right?
ANYWAYS, I will praise any book that's making an effort to spread the message of friendship and inclusion towards children of all abilities.
That said, I'm only giving the book 3 stars, because I tend to feel negatively about sentiments such as "God made Timmy the way he is because he has a plan for all of us." Considering Timmy's trials and tribulations primarily stem from discrimination from others, this is an awfully cruel plan, right?
ANYWAYS, I will praise any book that's making an effort to spread the message of friendship and inclusion towards children of all abilities.
March 16, 2015
What’s Wrong with Timmy is about a little boy named Timmy with Down Syndrome and a girl named Katie. Katie is a little girl who is curious about everything—even about Timmy. She meets Timmy at the park and asks her mom what is wrong with Timmy. She notices that he looks different and that he does things differently than everyone else. This book teaches children a great lesson that children with Down syndrome are capable of many things.
What’s Wrong with Timmy is more targeted for children in 3rd through 5th grade. The language is age-appropriate for students who are in these grades. It involves realistic and convincing characters. It also has a rich plot. The illustrations are accurate in terms of character. The characters lifestyle is very genuine and not oversimplified. When reading this book, children will be exposed to multiple perspectives through Timmy and Katie.
What’s Wrong with Timmy is more targeted for children in 3rd through 5th grade. The language is age-appropriate for students who are in these grades. It involves realistic and convincing characters. It also has a rich plot. The illustrations are accurate in terms of character. The characters lifestyle is very genuine and not oversimplified. When reading this book, children will be exposed to multiple perspectives through Timmy and Katie.
April 20, 2016
3.5. Semi-biased review, but a review is just an opinion, right?
I was really enjoying this book at first. The watercolor illustrations are terrific, the thicker paper makes the book seem higher in quality, and the overall message is necessary and well-crafted for children (I'd recommend older 3rd grade and up). However, as a counselor, it's really hard for me to blur the lines between teaching children about why children have (dis)abilities, and teaching them about a higher power. There's a huge component of religion and God, that I wish this book did not have. I respect the author's beliefs, and I respect the topic, but I know that this will make the book hard for me to teach to all of my students.
I was really enjoying this book at first. The watercolor illustrations are terrific, the thicker paper makes the book seem higher in quality, and the overall message is necessary and well-crafted for children (I'd recommend older 3rd grade and up). However, as a counselor, it's really hard for me to blur the lines between teaching children about why children have (dis)abilities, and teaching them about a higher power. There's a huge component of religion and God, that I wish this book did not have. I respect the author's beliefs, and I respect the topic, but I know that this will make the book hard for me to teach to all of my students.
December 3, 2012
This is a wonderfully written book about a girl meeting a boy with disabilities for the first time. The emotions and questions that children express are done in a very sensitive and sweet way. I love how Katie reflects on her concerns when she witnesses others' reactions. This really goes deep into how children contemplate new situations.
I would use this for 2nd through 4th grade because of the depth of the content discussed. There are some ways I might modify the story to accommodate the religious references expressed. This was a wonderful way to show the importance of accepting people for who they are.
I would use this for 2nd through 4th grade because of the depth of the content discussed. There are some ways I might modify the story to accommodate the religious references expressed. This was a wonderful way to show the importance of accepting people for who they are.
September 7, 2008
Amy Brantner 23 pages
"What's Wrong With Timmy?" is a great book for anyone who may not be comfortable around people with special needs. The book teaches people, that people who have special needs are normal. They are more like you than not. In the story, a girl named Kate is uncomfortable around someone with special needs. But after talking to her mom about it, she meets the boy and they become friends.
"What's Wrong With Timmy?" is a great book for anyone who may not be comfortable around people with special needs. The book teaches people, that people who have special needs are normal. They are more like you than not. In the story, a girl named Kate is uncomfortable around someone with special needs. But after talking to her mom about it, she meets the boy and they become friends.
April 25, 2013
I thought that this book was pretty tacky. I totally appreciate the moral of the story, don't get me wrong, but it was way too cookie cutter for my tastes. It wasn't very well written, but I did think that the illustrations were nice.
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February 24, 2013i chose too read whats wrong with timmy because i like stories about kids with special needs.this was a very good childrens book.i encourage kids to read this book because it has a very good lesson to it.
October 7, 2017
This would be useful to keep in your classroom. This story is about a boy named Timmy with special needs who encounters a girl who always asks what is wrong with them. This book teaches students that you may have more in common with others than you realize.
January 5, 2016
A beautiful book explaining very well to children about kids with disabilities and not to be afraid. Lovely illustrations.
April 12, 2012
I'm glad I read this book to my kids. I wish there were more illustrations to hold a child's attention.
April 23, 2012
Story of Timmy who is disabled. Use with diversity unit.
July 3, 2012
Kate is curious abut a new boy Timmy. After talking to her mom about why he is different, Kate tries to be his friend. Later, Kate asks her friends to play basketball with them.
April 8, 2013
This is an informational book about disabilities.
November 24, 2013
An explanation of disabilities in tender kid language.
February 5, 2015
This book is perfect for helping to explain exceptionalities to children or even some adults
December 28, 2015
an inspiring read
Want to read
October 16, 2016Great book to introduce the topic of disability. Great book to use to talk about bullying and including others.
November 30, 2016
This book features a boy with a disability. Students can learn what disabilities are and how they may appear from this book. I would include in a class library.
December 7, 2016
This is quality because it involves a character with disabilities
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December 7, 2016A great story that makes disabilities more understandable and relatable for students
November 8, 2017
Lovely book about loving people who are different from the norm.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews