A review by lakesidegirl
My Thirteenth Winter by Samantha Abeel

5.0

Samantha Abeel tells her own story of being diagnosed with and living with a learning disability. She tells of her struggles with concepts of math, numbers, and time. These problems came to a head in seventh grade when she began to have panic attacks because of her nervousness about her inability to understand math. Because she was incredibly gifted in most other areas, like creative writing and poetry, she fell into the category of gifted and learning disabled, making it extraordinarily difficult for her to get help from her school. When she finally received the help she needed in the form of special education, she was relieved to have help with her struggles. She goes on to detail her experiences in high school, college, and beyond in living with a learning disability.

Abeel’s well-written memoir raises important issues like the need for better special education classes and more recognition. Her story is an inspiration for others who struggle with learning disabilities.