I Just Am is written by a young man who has Down syndrome. Bryan Lambke shares his life experience with readers through pictures and simple remarks, questions, and explanations from babyhood to present day. This extraordinary young man worked hard to become an athlete and stood triumphant at the International Special Olympics in Ireland. Now, he shares his thoughts about Down syndrome. He writes, "I have a disability. It's not my fault. I just am."

Cheryl Rogers-Barnett, daughter of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, writes the introduction, giving a touching account of her family's experience with Down syndrome. Her sister was born with Down syndrome and died at the tender age of 2. Cheryl shares the striking difference in previous and current attitudes about Down syndrome; so much has changed since the 1950s, and thankfully so.

The Lambke family has been profoundly changed by their experience with Bryan. Both father and daughter work with Special Education children and have grown to champion Bryan's cause. Bryan just wants what everyone wants, a happy life, a job, a wife, and to live without discrimination.

If your family includes someone with Down syndrome, you and your children probably know much of what this book has to share, but it's always heartwarming to know that you're not alone in your journey. If your family does not include someone with Down syndrome, you'll probably learn a lot you didn't know. It will help everyone understand and perhaps break barriers so that you can learn to be more accepting of people with disabilities.