A History of Childhood and Disability : Book Review

"A History of Childhood and Disability" by Philip L. Safford offers a comprehensive exploration of the intertwined histories of childhood and disability across different historical periods. This book delves into the ever-changing perceptions, treatment, and experiences of children with disabilities, painting a vivid picture of their journey from the ancient world to the present day. Safford's analysis encompasses a wide range of perspectives, including societal, cultural, and medical viewpoints that have shaped these histories.

The book begins by examining ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where children with disabilities were often abandoned or seen as a burden on society. As the narrative progresses, Safford illuminates the establishment of early institutions and educational practices for these children, showcasing the shifting attitudes towards education and inclusion.

One particularly notable aspect of this book is the attention given to the role of religion and social ideologies in shaping the treatment of children with disabilities. Safford explores how religious beliefs influenced the perception of disability, offering intriguing insights into diverse traditions such as Christianity and Islam.

Throughout the book, Safford expertly incorporates the voices and stories of individuals with disabilities, bringing their experiences and resilience to the forefront amidst societal stigmatization. By including personal narratives, the author humanizes the historical analysis, providing a more empathetic and nuanced perspective.

Overall, "A History of Childhood and Disability" is a thought-provoking and enlightening read. Safford skillfully captures the complex and often overlooked history of childhood and disability, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of individuals and societies throughout the ages. This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the historical context of disability and its intersections with childhood.

What are readers saying?

Philip L. Safford's book, "A History of Childhood and Disability," has received a range of reviews, with readers expressing different opinions on its content and writing style. Some reviewers appreciated the author's comprehensive exploration of the historical aspects, noting the valuable insights it provides into the experiences of disabled children throughout different time periods. They found the book to be well-researched and informative, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of childhood and disability.

However, other readers found the book to be overly academic, dense, and difficult to follow. They felt that the writing style lacked engagement and storytelling, making it challenging to stay interested in the subject matter. Some even suggested that the academic approach may make it more suitable for scholars or researchers, rather than a general audience.

In terms of organization, some reviewers felt that the book could have been more cohesive. They noted that the chapters seemed disjointed and would have benefited from better flow and organization to enhance the overall reading experience.

Despite these criticisms, many readers acknowledged the importance of the topic and praised the author's efforts in shedding light on the history of childhood and disability. They appreciated the inclusion of references and sources, which added credibility to the content and provided opportunities for further exploration.

Overall, "A History of Childhood and Disability" by Philip L. Safford may be a valuable resource for those interested in the historical aspects of childhood and disability. However, potential readers should be aware that the writing style is academic and may require additional effort to fully grasp and engage with the text.

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