Book excerpt: Heaven´s Very Special Child & The Family is a most needed book concerning the purpose of God in allowing a child who is retarded or physically disabled to be born. From personal experiences by the author, a widow of a pastor, and one of their 5 children, with Down Snydrome (Ruth lived 43 years), Edna recounts the blessings, amid many trying times. Besides her personal story, in this book are many other stories from others that touch the hearts of readers. In Part 2 of the book are original poems and songs all related to the care and inspiration given to parents and other caregivers of children who are either physically disabled or mentally retarded. And, from a religious angle, the mention of prayers, unspoken by the child are emphasized. There is a resource section also, where readers can receive further information about parenting a disabled child, and the obvious joys and benefits to themselves and to society. The poem ´Heaven´s Very Special Child´ was read and acknowledged by the late President Kennedy on the day of his assassination. As we all know, his sister was mentally retarded. The actual inspiration for the poem was through Henry Viscardi´s conversation with his mother. Henry was born without legs and became a famous author and he started a school for disabled children in New York. For ordering and with personal communication with its author, you can write to her at the following address: EDNA MASSIMILLA 2815 Byberry Rd.Suite 120, Hatboro, PA 19040