I’m starting a new series here on the blog – “Read This Next,” which offers book and reading recommendations that relate somehow to disability. If you have a recommendation for this space, comment with your suggestion and we will definitely check it out!
Our first rec is A Time to Dance by Padma Venkatraman. This novel is written in verse and follows Veda’s journey through acceptance and strength after losing her leg after a car accident. Veda is a dancer in India who must learn to find a new but equal way to express herself through the medium.
While Venkatraman is not disabled herself, she did extensive research with disabled individuals to give her writing an authentic feel. I found myself connecting to Veda’s experiences so much that I knew the author consulted with others and listened to their suggestions. I also appreciated how, through the narrative, Venkatraman shows the power of seeing others like yourself achieving goals – this novel is the perfect example of why representation is important.
You can learn more about the book on the GoodReads page. Let us know in the comments whether you’ve read this, or if you’ve added it to your reading list!
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