Deena, My Best Friend
Laura Ziemer
Paperback
(America Star Books, Aug. 24, 2012)
Have you ever found a best friend who is special? Mrs. Ziemer, a first grade teacher, tells her class about her nine-year-old best friend, Deena. Deena has cerebral palsy. "Cerebral palsy means that when she was born, she had a loss of oxygen to her brain. This made her lose control of some of the functions of her body." Mrs. Ziemer explains that some children with cerebral palsy can walk, but not talk, or they can talk, and not walk. The children are introduced to different ways people can communicate using devices or tools to help them. Deena is able to do math facts, read, and is a kid just like them. Mrs. Ziemer tries to empower the children in understanding that they should not be afraid of people who are different from them. Mrs. Ziemer wants her students to know that all people need friends no matter who you are. Laura Ziemer lives in Manitowoc, Wisconsin with her husband Matt and daughter Jaylee. Laura has a dual degree in early childhood/special education. Laura met Deena in 2001, and became her in home teacher. Laura treasures her time with Deena and is empowered to teach other people about her.