Marco and I Want To Play Ball: A True Story Promoting Inclusion and Self-Determination

By Jo Meserve Mach and Vera Lynne Stroup-Rentier

This book was written by Jo Meserve Mach and Vera Lynne Stroup-Rentier with photography by Mary Birdsell. This book supports inclusive education.

Isiah was born with Spina Bifida. This affected his motor development and resulted in a delay in his ability to walk independently. Isiah has always loved sports.
Initially, his mother used this interest to motivate him to develop his motor skills.
Now his mother honors this interest. It has become a passion, and she advocates for Isiah to be able to fully participate inclusively in sports.

We chose to write this story because Isiah is part of an extended family that actively promotes his development of skills needed for self-determination. They have the expectation that he can follow his passion to play ball while they provide him with as many opportunities as possible to do so.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Finding My Way Books
• Release date: Nov 28, 2016
• ISBN: 9781944764395

Jo Meserve Mach

Jo Meserve Mach (author) spent 36 years as an Occupational Therapist. She is very passionate about sharing the stories of children with special needs. Jo embraces the joy that individuals with disabilities bring to our communities through their unique gifts. Jo is cofounder of Finding My Way Books, which offers tools to help children without disabilities realize that children with disabilities are kids just like them. Readers and teachers love her books, which they describe as "great," "fabulous," which "showcase how a person with a disability can be a mentor to others," and "make the teachable moments and situations perfect for young students." They are recommended for parents, teachers, elementary school libraries, homeschoolers, and anyone who wants a more just and inclusive world.