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Emmanuel's Dream: The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah


This true story teaches young readers that believing in oneself and having courage to persevere is the greatest ability of all. Born with a deformed leg in Ghana, many judged and dismissed Emmanuel due to his disability. Throughout this text, there is a unifying theme of overcoming adversity. Thompson does a fantastic job grounding the story in facts, providing details that are vivid, accurate and linked to the accomplishments of Emmanuel (Galda, 2017).

Teachers can use this text to: 

  • explore themes such as overcoming adversity, perseverance, and self-reliance
  • Culturally Response Teaching
  • discuss conversations about privilege 

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Author:  Laurie Ann Thompson

Illustrator:  Sean Qualls

Year Published:  2015

Target Age/ Grade Level: Ages 5-8 , Grades  K-2

Genre: Memoir

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