Review: My Life Beyond Sickle Cell Disease by Hey Gee

My Life Beyond Sickle Cell Disease by Guillaume Federighi AKA Hey Gee is a graphic novel based on a real life Mayo Clinic patient. We are introduced to Arabella, a 14 year old aspiring track star who is training for the international races. With each race she attempts, her sickle cells affect her in different ways but she doesn’t let that stop her.. With big dreams and optimism, we see her determination not allowing her illness to defeat her. As we learn the ways she manages to work through her challenges, we watch her embrace her “nothing is impossible” mantra to achieve her goals and live the best life she can.

This is such a wonderful book to share with kids to learn more about sickle cell disease from the perspective of a kid. This isn’t just an inspiring read watching her work hard through her challenges to reach her life goals and is a great lesson to be gained. Also, there is information and resources at the conclusion that will allow you to learn more.

This is 40 pages. The reading level is 8-12 years old.

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