About Us is a compilation of essays from the Disability Series of the New York Times. I found so many of these essays thought-provoking and inspiring conversation with others. I loved that they're so short, allowing the book to contain a lot of them, showing a range of experiences. As the book states, the essays presented here both normalize and exceptionalize disability. "Disabled lives are as valid as nondisabled lives, but they are not the same."

The essays are grouped under different topics: justice, belonging, working, navigating, coping, love, family, and joy. I read them in order; as such, I was able to see various experiences relating to one specific topic in the span of 15 minutes. The different authors often seem to be in conversation with each other, despite having a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.

This is a book I am certainly glad to have read and am grateful it exists.

Content warning: recollection and discussion of ableism throughout, suicide in the last essay

Based on the successful NYT column, About Us is a collection that - an extension of its roots - 'transforms the national dialogue around disability'. It's packed to the brim of eye-opening accounts of what it is to live in a world not designed for or often accommodating to you. Covering a range of topics, this is one of those collections that shines through writers telling their own stories in their own words, without need to hide any part of them. Platforms and collections such as this are brilliant, thought-provoking and a must read.

This was both heartbreaking and beautiful. Brutally honest. Every story gave me so many emotions and I hope everyone reads this and learns from it, I know I did.

I can't speak highly enough about this book!!! Ever wonder what it feels like to live life with a disability? This book is a strong reminder to be thankful for what we have, and not to judge others. Once you pick this up, you will not be able to put down this gem of a book. I highly recommend!