A month or so ago I came across a book which piqued my interest. I was considering whether I should buy it but it came up in our local county library through their online service which uses the Libby App. The book is still relatively new at the time of writing. It is ‘brother.do.you.love.me.’ by Manni Coe and Reuben Coe. The title is taken from a text message that Reuben sent his brother Manni during Lockdown. There was a picture that captured what was going on at the same time of Reuben at a window reaching out his hand that got into the press sometime in 2020 highlighting the state of the care system.
I found the book very moving. It is thoughtfully written and the style is easy to read but the actual content pulls you in emotionally. I am not going to say much more on the subject but put out a couple of videos I found about the book which cover some of the content. I recommend this thought provoking book.
This video is an interview with the author and his brother by Sally Phillips and her son Olly who also has Downs Syndrome. It is a little over an hour.
The video below is an American take on the book.
Over the years I’ve had interaction with individuals who have Down Syndrome to varying degrees. Like the rest of us they are very much individuals, all unique. They have something to bring to the world. When you meet them they do change you.