Special Olympics Ontario athlete, author and inspirational speaker Michael Jacques has published his first children’s book.
I Belong: Can I Play?, written by Michael Jacques and Heather Gale, centres around Michael’s childhood and how he struggled to find a place in school and in sports, because he learns a different way. The picture book follows his path to Special Olympics, while teaching the importance of inclusion, friendship and belonging.
“Growing up with autism and having an intellectual disability did make my life more difficult than a lot of kids my age,” said Michael. “But with the great support of my family, a best friend, Daniel, and organizations such as Special Olympics, I was able to focus on my strengths and find my voice.”
I Belong: Can I Play? is Michael’s second publication – he published his first book Can’t Read, Can’t Write, Here’s My Book in 2018, which is a collection of life stories and discoveries that teach us how to embrace and celebrate differences.
I Belong: Can I Play? will be available for purchase on Thursday October 1, with partial proceeds donated to Special Olympics Canada.
Click here to purchase the book: