A Little Extra Jayne

A book by Summer Adamson & Julie Wells

  • “A sweet story about how everyone has something that makes them alike and also unique. Jayne has an extra chromosome (though I learned that in the afterword) and through the story she shows her "extra" self that is extra excited, compassionate, caring, and joyful. She shares those parts of herself wherever she goes. I love these kinds of stories that anyone can relate to, whether just a rambunctious child or someone who is truly "extra" and different. Let those things shine through, just like Jayne!”

    - Katherine McDonald, Librarian

  • “A Little Extra Jayne by Summer Adamson (publish date September 23) Every girl needs this book. This is the most precious story, with the most quaint illustrations. The story was so heart felt. Beautifully done! @a_little_extra_jayne“

    - Kelsey Vogeney, @little_blue_book_hutch

  • “Oh my gosh, this book—I was so excited when I read the title and saw the cover because I was hoping the “little extra” in the title was referring to a child with an extra-chromosome—and it was! My granddaughter has an extra-chromosome too. The cover shows an obviously happy girl in a dress, wearing a crown, balancing gracefully on one foot while holding a star-wand in one hand and throwing glitter with the other. This read-along picture book about a seven-year-old girl named Jayne who has Down syndrome is filled with joy. The story, told through rhyming lines and delightful illustrations by Julie Wells, shows Jayne engaging in many activities and adding extra special things like wonder, encouragement and excitement to everyone’s day. At the end of this inclusive book is a list of facts about Down syndrome, inclusion reminders, and some other resources. The book is designed for readers aged 5-8.“

    - Bright Book Reviews

  • “I loved this story about a little girl who is just a bit "extra!" The story itself doesn't tell the reader, but it is based on the author's daughter who has Downs Syndrome - an extra chromosome! I loved the illustrations - they were 'old fashioned" in a good way. Beautiful story and book!”

    - Cheryl Crawford, Preschool Teacher

  • “My heart! What a lovely read this was. A Little Extra Jayne is one special girl’s story and what an engaging story it is. I enjoyed following Jayne and her fun filled daily routine. Her positive outlook on life was contagious and I found myself smiling as I read this. It’s underlying message of inclusion and finding joy in the little yet big things in life was truly precious. A lovely addition to any personal or classroom library. Enjoy!“

    - Judy Ann, @judy.ann.loves.books

  • “This book is a "little extra" in all the best ways! Extra whimsy with the vintage-like illustrations. Extra read-aloud quality with the lyrical rhyme scheme. Extra fun as Jayne spreads her positive attitude, her zest for fun, and her love of laughter everywhere she goes. Extra inclusive as the extra not only refers to the extra happy ways Jayne shares her joy but also to her extra chromosome as a child with Down syndrome. Jayne is extra in all the best ways, and we think the extra time you take to read and discuss with your Littles will be extra special!”

    - Storybook Basics, @storybookbasics

  • “I've often heard the term "extra" as a derogatory term when referring to others, so it was a delightful twist to see how Jayne owned being "extra". Her "extra-ness" made those around her delight in the big and little things, and by the end of the book Jayne had me grinning ear to ear. She was a delightful character, and I was pleased to have known her. Consider my surprise when I read the notes at the end - Jayne is the author's daughter, and she was born with Down's Syndrome. Summer Anderson has created a lovely book that is enjoyable in it's own right, but she's also opened up conversations for those who are curious, may not understand, or perhaps have someone in their own life with Down's. I so value books like this that function together or separately, and I will definitely be sharing this book with others.”

    - Ashley Love Sellers

  • “I loved this so much, what an absolutely beautiful story about a beautiful girl. She enjoys everything about her life and her family and friends enjoy having her around. I love that everything she does, she adds an extra touch to it all. I also love that the story shares how wonderful she is as a person and that until the end unless you know about her before reading you don’t realize she has Down Syndrome, she’s such a happy, beautiful fun child.”

    - Joey-Susan Luke, @apapergirlapapertown

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