Sometimes it can be hard to understand why someone acts the way they do; especially when that person has a disability. This can be even more difficult when that person is your brother and everyday that passes you still do not understand his disability. Emma makes it her duty to help her 3 year old little brother learn some sign language. Emma's brother has down syndrome so teaching him quickly proves it will be harder than she thought. He has no speech so relaying messages, words, and commands can be difficult challenges. She becomes frustrated when she can not figure out why he is not catching on, not paying attention, and throwing tantrums. Her dad tells her not give up and to keep her patience with her brother. Through this journey Emma begins to understand her brother's disorder. She realizes that he cannot control his every action and her patient begins to grow. Because Emma never gave up on her brother, everyday got better and better. I really enjoyed this book. It is great for children because it can be hard to understand why someone acts differently than we do. It is important for children to learn patience, and understand that everyone learns and acts differently. This book gives readers the message that they are many challenges that people with down syndrome face, but with hard work and patience they can accomplish everything everyone else can do. ( )

This is the story of a young girl and how she copes with the challenges involved with having a brother with down syndrome. It goes through the daily struggles and finally triumphs that she experiences with her brother. It is a heart warming, eloquently written story that allows the reader to better understand the patience and love involved with having a family member with special needs. ( )

Emma tries to help her 3 year old brother who has down syndrome sign language, but finds herself frustrated.
Ages 4-8
Pierce College

Emma is sometimes embarrassed by her brother Issac because of his Austim, he can act strange and temperamental. But when Issac visits Emma school she learns to embrace what makes him special.

“The Best Worst Brother” is a story about a girl who becomes frustrated when she cannot understand her younger brother’s behavior. Her brother is deaf, and she takes it upon herself to try and teach him, “please” and “thank you” in sign language. This book does a fantastic job communicating the many frustrations a sibling may have when their brother or sister has a disability. It also shows that; although it may be frustrating, to never give up on them. Her dad was stressing the importance of being patient with her brother, for he would progress in time. It is important for readers to be introduced to stories like this one, because they must understand that they have to have patience with classmates that have a special need or disability. ( )