Portrayals of Disabled Characters

Use this forum to discuss the April 2019 Book of the month, "Adrift" by Charlie Sheldon
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Popcorn1
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Re: Portrayals of Disabled Characters

Post by Popcorn1 »

Some of the characters that are portrayed with disablity really made me associate them with the deeper meaning of Adrift and not the literal meaning. Especially Jimmie, he is like a ship that has an unstable anchor in a raging sea.
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Post by Galesphere »

I liked Pete a lot. What I liked most about him was that he wasn't afraid to say that his wound hurt or that there were some things he couldn't do anymore. He didn't try to hide his pain, which is very brave and humbling to do. I like this thread, because I didn't even consider the theme of overcoming disability, but you're right, it's a strong theme, and Sheldon does well in liberating those who have scars, physical or mental.
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Post by ElizaBeth Adams »

I think if we are honest with ourselves, we all have areas of weakness. Reading about others who thrive despite their weakness inspires us to do the same. I also admire the way the author portrayed and included these characters. It didn't feel forced, like he was just including people with disabilities so he could check it off of some list. Everyone seemed very real and pertinent to the story. This also helped them resonate.
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Most of the time, those who have disabilities are those most capable and efficient in their work, they produce more quality deliverables. Disabilities should not hinder anyone to pursue his dreams!
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Post by Eclecticmama »

I love just how real Charlie Sheldon was about living life with a long term disability. Pete knew his job was in jeopardy because of his knee. As well as his ability to care for his son. But despite it all, he keeps trying
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Post by danielleamy »

It's refreshing to see a novel that includes characters with disabilities. Especially when they are a main or important character in the story. Well done to the author for producing a diverse novel!
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Post by Kaylee Elmer »

I loved all those characters, too. Heather was one of my favorites. I didn't really think of her as "disabled" because she was one of the toughest people stranded. I was so excited for her when she got the seal, even though it was a bit gory the way it was described.

Jimmie also really impressed me. I was sooooo glad when he got to go live with Steve at the end of the book.
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Post by Kibet Hillary »

Personally, I like how Pete was portrayed in the book. He was fighting for custody of his son against a man who was both wealthy and also stronger. He also continued to work despite the injury he had sustained. He is also a nice person who seems to be working in the wrong place.
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Post by jessinikkip »

It is always great to see well-written characters with disabilities. Real people aren't perfect, but for some reason, authors think that characters have to be. I like realistic, disabled, not so perfect characters in my books.
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Post by Kibet Hillary »

lisalynn wrote: 19 Apr 2019, 20:58 It's really great to see such diversity in a novel. It reflects everyday life and allows everyone to see themselves in one of the characters.
Wow. This is incredibly true. The author came up with a variety of characters. I am glad that the characters who had different abilities were developed well.
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Post by Kajori Sheryl Paul »

All these characters rang a chord. Despite their disabilities, they took charge of their lives.
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Post by Kajori Sheryl Paul »

Kaylee123 wrote: 25 Apr 2019, 09:47 I loved all those characters, too. Heather was one of my favorites. I didn't really think of her as "disabled" because she was one of the toughest people stranded. I was so excited for her when she got the seal, even though it was a bit gory the way it was described.

Jimmie also really impressed me. I was sooooo glad when he got to go live with Steve at the end of the book.
I also didn't think Heather to be disabled. She was strong, and she showed all those who doubted her what she was capable of by getting that seal.
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Post by Kajori Sheryl Paul »

danielleamy wrote: 25 Apr 2019, 09:19 It's refreshing to see a novel that includes characters with disabilities. Especially when they are a main or important character in the story. Well done to the author for producing a diverse novel!
I agree. A diverse novel always seems to be more realistic. Also, the way the disabled characters were portrayed was commendable. None of them let their disability conquer their lives
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Post by Kajori Sheryl Paul »

Eclecticmama wrote: 24 Apr 2019, 22:13 I love just how real Charlie Sheldon was about living life with a long term disability. Pete knew his job was in jeopardy because of his knee. As well as his ability to care for his son. But despite it all, he keeps trying
Yes, he did not give up. He did what he had to do to get his son's custody. Jimmie too took charge of his life and made it easier for his father to get him out of the facility.
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Post by Kajori Sheryl Paul »

ElizaBeth Adams wrote: 24 Apr 2019, 12:04 I think if we are honest with ourselves, we all have areas of weakness. Reading about others who thrive despite their weakness inspires us to do the same. I also admire the way the author portrayed and included these characters. It didn't feel forced, like he was just including people with disabilities so he could check it off of some list. Everyone seemed very real and pertinent to the story. This also helped them resonate.
Exactly. In fact, I never even consider Heather to be disabled while reading the book. She was just someone with diabetes who needed regular medicines for me.
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