Description

The celebrated designer Dana Buchman knew almost nothing about "learning differences" when her daughter, Charlotte, was diagnosed with disabilities as a toddler. She soon discovered that the hard work and determination that had taken her from the Ivy League to her own fashion label wouldn't be enough to deal with Charlotte's disabilities; she would have to acquire a new skill-set to be able to see Charlotte as a person with unique abilities. A moving mother-daughter story, A Special Education is an inspiring account of one mother's journey to acceptance and understanding, as well as a family's triumph over daunting circumstances.

Praise for A Special Education:

"This is an extraordinarily engaging, candid, and courageous book. . . . It is essential reading for parents—and for anyone who wants to know more about children's profound influence on their parents."
—James H. Wendorf, Executive Director, National Center for Learning Disabilities

"An intensely personal memoir . . . which should go a long way toward lifting the stigma of learning disabilities."
—Library Journal

"Buchman gives us Charlotte's brave, triumphant story. But the book's surprising gift to readers is the author's candid self-portrait."
—More

"Dana Buchman illuminates the challenges faced by so many mothers and fathers whose children seem out-of-step yet undeniably promising in their wiring!"
—Mel Levine, M.D., author of A Mind at a Time

"Provides parents with a roadmap and a compass for their trek into the world of learning disorders. [Buchman's] hard-earned wisdom will make your journey more manageable; her sensitivity will touch you; her courage will inspire you."
—Richard Lavoie, author of It's So Much Work to Be Your Friend

About the Author

Dana Buchman's eponymous line of women's fashion is one of the most widely distributed designer labels in the country, appearing in every major department store. Buchman lives in New York City with her husband, Tom Farber, and their younger daughter, Annie. Charlotte Farber now attends college in New England.

Dana Buchman is graciously donating her proceeds from the sale of A Special Education to the National Center for Learning Disabilities to support its mission and programs.

Extended Copyright Information

Copyright 2006 by Dana Buchman and Charlotte Farber.

All rights reserved.

Previously published by Da Capo Lifelong, a member of the Perseus Books Group.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the Publisher.

Many of the designations used by manufacturers and sellers to distinguish their products are claimed as trademarks. Where those designations appear in this book and Da Capo Press was aware of a trademark claim, those designations have been printed with initial capital letters.

Cover design by Alex Camlin.
Cover photograph copyright Alistair Taylor.

Opening Lines (Experimental)

ONCE UPON A TIME, I WAS PERFECTLY BEHAVED.
I juggled marriage, a fast-paced career as an emerging fashion designer, and motherhood, all with a perpetual smile on my face and nary a complaint. I lived in a constant state of emergency, barely sleeping at night. I exhibited emotional needs rarely (and ...

Copyright

Copyright 2006 by Dana Buchman and Charlotte Farber.

All Rights Reserved.