The description of this book makes it seem like this is about a family’s journey with Kleinfelter’s, however it is primarily a work drama with a side story of the family’s medical journey. The narrative is repetitive and a little unnatural at times, as characters try to teach the reader various medical points. It does give some insight into how individuals and families may have reacted to this diagnosis, although I hope professional attitudes have changed as this book is set in the early 2000s and the medical professionals do not always act the most professionally.

5/5 Stars!!!! Thank you, NetGalley, Bold Story Press, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for this eARC of Supplemental Needs by Virginia Isaacs Cover.

First off, WOW. I am so glad I was able to grab a copy of this. As a mom to kids with special needs, this was comforting to read and know that "we are not alone" for us special needs momma. The difficulties are there and the extra care that is needed for raising a child with special needs. I was connected right from the beginning when Virginia talked about her relationship with her sister and that "everything is just perfect" for her. That just hits home with me with my own family and the feeling that you get when this "happens" to you. Nobody asks for this life, but when this happens to you - you will go to the end of the earth for your child(ren).

I will definitely be recommending this book. Again, this is hands-down 5 stars!

What would you do? You are halfway through a much wanted pregnancy when your obstetrician calls. You are pregnant with a baby boy, who you will name Jacob. Jacob has an extra chromosome and will be born with Klinefelter syndrome. You and your husband, both shocked, are referred for genetic counseling. A physician tells you the baby will probably become a criminal, have a low IQ, gender dysphoria or more. He recommends abortion. A counselor tells you that your son might have normal intelligence. You want this baby. You won’t have an abortion.

This begins Supplemental Needs, a novel that brings to life the care of a special needs child and the effect they have on family. Rachel and Dave’s son Jacob has some deficits and qualifies for intensive therapies. They navigate this new world during a time when Rachel faces challenges at work. Their lives and that of their older son are forever changed but Rachel doesn’t question her decision.

Supplemental Needs refers literally to a special trust that will provide extra care for Jacob beyond the most basic living expenses. Figuratively, it refers to the extra daily needs of a Klinefelter syndrome child. Virginia Isaacs Cover does not gloss over these difficulties. Supplemental Needs is a must read for anyone needing information about Klinefelter syndrome or dealing with a special needs child. 5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley, Bold Story Press and Virginia Isaacs Cover for this ARC.