Never Give Up!

Mike Simmel

Book cover for Never Give Up!
Book cover for Never Give Up!
Book cover for Never Give Up!
Book cover for Never Give Up!

Never Give Up!

Never Give Up!

Mike Simmel

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Description

"Limits don't define you; you define your own limits!"

Young Xander Zimmons has three main loves in life: his mom and dad, his dog Maddie, and basketball. But as the new kid at Piedmont Middle School, he has nobody to shoot hoops with and worries that his epilepsy might make him stick out more than an airball at a playoff game. That is until he meets Evan Thomas, a cool, quiet kid who shares Xander's love for basketball. Evan has autism, and the new best buds instantly bond over their "invisible" disabilities and their passion for the game. Things get really exciting when they're invited to attend a Bounce Out the Stigma basketball clinic run by "Mighty" Mike Simmel-a real-life basketball pro who doesn't let epilepsy interfere with his sick dribbling skills. At Mighty Mike's clinic and camp, the boys meet other kids just like them who have disabilities and love to play b-ball. Together, the kids learn that nothing can slow them down.

Critical Reviews

"Never Give Up is a powerful and inspiring book that offers hope for anyone facing challenges in their life. Mike Simmel takes readers on a personal journey through hurdles and challenges he faced living with epilepsy, while sharing lessons along the way. Never Give Up leaves the reader inspired and ready to conquer whatever challenges life throws their way. Simmel does an amazing job emphasizing the importance of resilience, strength, and the belief that no matter the challenges we encounter, we have an ability to push through and emerge stronger. Success is not defined by what we overcome, but by our commitment to never give up. Never Give Up is a must-read that will encourage you to act and believe that your greatest potential is within reach, no matter the circumstances."

-Jeannine S. Garab, Executive Director, Epilepsy Foundation of Northeast NY

"Never Give Up offers powerful lessons on inclusivity and understanding autism. Through its engaging story, young readers are invited to learn about and celebrate differences, while also exploring the importance of friendship, teamwork, and community. This book creates an opportunity for children to grow in empathy and acceptance, making it a valuable tool for parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to nurture a more inclusive world."

-Dr. Suzanne Buchanan, Autism New Jersey Executive Director

" Never Give Up is an amazing children's book that shares a view into the world of disabilities and how children can gain a better understanding of peers who may seem different. This book creates an opportunity for children to learn what it is to be inclusive and aware of others and accepting of not only the limitations someone might have but the "capabilities" that make that person who they are. As a parent of a child that has epilepsy it is impactful and truly a great thing to see, that the book supports making change and ending the STIGMA that surrounds disabilities and allows a truly more visual impact of a more inclusive world."

-Alyssa Lovill, MA QMHP- Epilepsy Warrior Parent

Publishing Information

Publisher: Warren Publishing, Inc
Pub date: 2025-02-25
Length: 110 pages

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