Disability Pride Month: Spotlight on Authors with Disabilities
Ainsley Shaw • July 11, 2025
July is Disability Pride Month and commemorates the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Lioness Books is celebrating this month by featuring authors with disabilities, amplifying their voices, and highlighting literature that focuses on self-representation, reclamation, inclusion, and history.
Here are some authors with disabilities and literature to engage with this month and beyond:
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/ilya-kaminsky, via Poetry Foundation
Ilya Kaminsky
At just four years old, Ilya Kaminsky lost most of his hearing due to a medical misdiagnosis in his hometown of Odessa, Ukraine. According to the Poetry Foundation, upon being granted political asylum by the United States in 1993 and his father’s death in 1994, he began to write poetry in English. He went on to gain two degrees, co-found Poets for Peace, and collect many accolades for his poems. His 2019 poetry collection Deaf Republic, tells the story of a country in political turmoil where all of the citizens become deaf and learn to use sign language due to the killing a deaf boy.
Peter Nicholson
Lowell Handler
An educator, photographer, filmmaker, and author, Lowell Handler has lived many lives. His photos have appeared in a plethora of major magazines and newspapers and his personal documentary was nominated for an Emmy and won the San Francisco International Film Festival. Twitch and Shout is the title of both Lowell Handler’s personal documentary and memoir about his life and experiences with Tourette syndrome. As noted on his website, Handler’s memoir “is a heartfelt and often humorous effort to reclaim and humanize a disorder that can keep others at a distance.”
Via Penguin Random House
Via Bookshop.org
What We Have Done: An Oral History of the Disability Rights Movement
In What We Have Done, Fred Pelka presents the history and voices of the Disability Rights Movement from 1950 to 1990 with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. It chronicles the ways in which disability has come to be viewed as a political issue and how people with disabilities have had to fight for equal representation and participation.
An independent bookstore supports local authors and artists by featuring their work, hosting signings, and helping them connect with readers. We give artists space to showcase their creations and organize events that bring people together. This article explores how independent bookstores support local authors, artists, and communities, strengthen the economy, uplift new voices, and offer experiences that large retailers can't match. Why Independent Bookstores Are Vital to Local Communities Libro.fm's reported growth in 2025 points to a renewed interest in supporting community-rooted bookstores. Independent bookstores act as anchors for neighborhood connection, creativity, and learning. Unlike large retailers, we are locally owned and community-driven, often reflecting the values, voices, and interests of the people we serve. An independent bookstore supports local authors by creating direct pathways between creators and readers. Key local bookstore economic contributions include: Offering curated selections based on local readership Creating safe, inclusive spaces for dialogue and exploration Hosting events that foster education and cultural literacy Supporting local talent, ensuring an independent bookstore supports local authors and artists, is visible and impactful Platforms like Libro.fm further expand this independent bookstore community impact by offering audiobook options that directly support independent bookstores. Instead of defaulting to large corporate platforms, Libro.fm lets customers choose a local bookstore to support with every audiobook purchase . This partnership model helps preserve neighborhood bookstores' financial independence and gives readers a conscious alternative to support the voices and spaces we value. How Lioness Books Supports Local Authors and Creators Lioness Books was founded with a clear mission: to elevate local voices and make books more accessible across the community. As a mobile used bookseller , it meets readers where they are and makes space for authors whose work reflects regional experiences and diverse perspectives. Here’s how Lioness Books leads in independent bookstore supports local authors: Featuring self-published and small-press authors on mobile shelves Offering book placement without the barriers typical of large distributors Promoting local titles at pop-ups and markets across the region Collaborating directly with writers to understand and represent their work Local creators gain visibility, credibility, and sales opportunities they might not access through traditional outlets. Readers benefit from authentic, relevant stories they can’t find on algorithm-driven platforms. Top Events at Independent Bookstores That Boost Local Engagement Community events are a key part of how an independent bookstore supports local authors and deepens engagement. These gatherings offer more than marketing; we build relationships and foster shared learning. Common high-impact events include: Author Readings and Book Signings : Introduce new voices and connect readers with the people behind the stories Writing Workshops : Offer skill-building and peer feedback in a supportive environment Local Book Fairs : Showcase multiple authors and artists in one accessible space Themed Book Clubs : Encourage community discussion around local or underrepresented narratives Lioness Books curates events that match the interests of each neighborhood it serves. Whether through a weekend market or a library partnership, these experiences bring books to life. The Economic Impact of Independent Bookstores on Local Communities Every dollar spent at an independent bookstore stays in the local economy longer. Unlike large retailers, these businesses reinvest their revenue into their communities by hiring locally, sourcing from nearby vendors, and partnering with other small enterprises. Key economic benefits: Job Creation : Supporting employment for local staff, authors, and artists Local Spending : Encouraging more money to circulate within the community Small Business Growth : Offering shelf space or collaboration to other local entrepreneurs When an independent bookstore supports local authors, it’s part of a broader system of economic empowerment. Mobile models like Lioness Books extend this impact by reaching communities that may not have access to brick-and-mortar literary spaces . How Independent Bookstores Create Unique Customer Experiences Independent bookstores stand out by making the book-buying experience personal, meaningful, and reflective of the local community. At Lioness Books, each pop-up shop is curated for the neighborhood, drawing on local interests and seasonal themes that show how an independent bookstore supports local authors through intentional selection. Elements of a unique experience include: Personalized Recommendations : Staff and owners often know their readers and can suggest titles that fit their interests Community-Centered Curation : Inventory reflects regional authors, issues, and artistic movements A Welcoming, Low-Pressure Environment : Visitors are encouraged to browse, ask questions, and linger This personalized approach builds long-term loyalty. It also supports discovery, introducing readers to local authors and artists they might never find through major online platforms. The Role of Independent Bookstores in Supporting Local Artists Beyond books, independent bookstores play a vital role in elevating local visual artists, illustrators, and makers. By offering space to display or sell creative work, we help artists gain exposure and connect with new audiences. How Lioness Books contributes: Partnering with visual artists for cover design, bookmarks, and promotional materials Featuring local artwork at pop-up events Creating collaborative storytelling opportunities between writers and visual artists This integrated support reinforces the cultural importance of independent bookstores that support local authors and creative communities alike. It turns each visit into a multidimensional experience. Why Supporting Independent Bookstores Matters for Your Community Supporting independent bookstores is an investment in your community’s cultural and economic future. These stores preserve access to diverse stories, encourage lifelong learning, and create spaces that reflect your neighborhood’s unique character. Why it matters: Literacy and Education : Offering affordable, relevant books for all ages Cultural Representation : Uplifting local voices and marginalized perspectives Community Resilience : Strengthening local economies and relationships When you choose an independent bookstore that supports local authors, you’re helping to shape a literary ecosystem rooted in authenticity, accessibility, and care. How Community Engagement at Lioness Books Drives Long-Term Success Lioness Books succeeds by building strong, local relationships through a community-first approach that shows how an independent bookstore supports local authors in real, measurable ways. Here’s how that community engagement with independent bookstores translates into long-term success: Consistent Local Presence: Lioness Books brings books directly to neighborhoods, schools, markets, and community events, meeting readers where they are while reinforcing how an independent bookstore supports local authors beyond a traditional storefront. Responsive Feedback Loops: Customer and author input directly shapes inventory, event programming, and partnership decisions, ensuring offerings stay relevant. Support for Local Talent: Through visible, accessible promotion and collaboration, Lioness strengthens the ecosystem of support for independent bookstores, local authors, and creators. Trust-Building Through Repetition: Familiarity builds loyalty. When readers see Lioness show up regularly with thoughtful recommendations and local titles, they return, and they tell others. Sustainable, Values-Driven Growth: Rather than chasing trends, Lioness focuses on steady, community-aligned growth. This creates a strong foundation for lasting impact. Lioness Books proves that when bookstores put people first, loyalty follows. With each pop-up, partnership, and conversation, it demonstrates what a meaningful independent bookstore supports local authors and achieves for readers and communities alike. Support Local Stories and Be Part of Your Community’s Literary Future Independent bookstores thrive when communities engage with them. By visiting Lioness Books, attending local events, sharing the work of regional authors, or simply spreading the word, you help strengthen a bookstore model built on trust, access, and local impact. Your involvement shows how an independent bookstore supports local authors, ensuring that meaningful stories continue to find their readers, right where they belong. See Where Lioness Books Is Popping Up Next Frequently Asked Questions 1. How do independent bookstores support local authors and artists? Independent bookstores support local authors and artists by featuring their books in-store and online, hosting readings and signings, and promoting their work through curated recommendations. We provide access to audiences that authors may not reach otherwise and help build long-term visibility within the community. 2. Why do Indie Bookstores' author events matter to the community? Indie bookstores' author events reflect the identity and needs of the neighborhoods they serve. They create spaces for connection, offer educational and cultural programming, and support the local economy by reinvesting revenue into nearby businesses, authors, and artists. 3. What events help bookstores engage local artists? Events such as art shows, collaborative exhibits, live painting sessions, and cross-disciplinary showcases (e.g., poetry readings paired with visual art) give artists visibility and create engaging experiences for visitors. These events strengthen connections between the creative community and the public. 4. How can bookstores drive community growth? Bookstores foster community growth by supporting literacy, promoting local talent, creating inclusive gathering spaces, and generating economic activity through local partnerships. Their presence contributes to a culturally vibrant, economically resilient community. Key Takeaways Independent bookstore support for local authors creates visibility, access, and long-term opportunity for emerging voices. Events and curated offerings help bookstores connect communities through shared stories and creative expression. Local economic impact grows when bookstores source from and collaborate with nearby writers, artists, and vendors. Platforms like Libro.fm extend support by giving audiobook listeners a way to support independent bookstores. Community-centered models, like Lioness Books, build trust, loyalty, and sustainable relationships. Supporting indie bookstores is an investment in education, culture, and local resilience.
Master the basics of bookbinding and restoration with these top 7 books. Build skills that last, browse our beginner-friendly picks now.
Local author and poet Raven Vervain talks with us about her debut writing collection, The Murder in my Garden and her upcoming book, Everyone has a Shotgun for a Spine (to be released on June 21, 2026) along with her zine-making process.
From the frontier to the screen; the enduring ache of Train Dreams.
Celebrate the season with 15 classic Christmas books for kids, teens, and adults, featuring mystery, magic, and holiday favorites.
Find the perfect read for every book lover on your list with our curated Holiday Gift Guide! We have taken the time to highlight some show stopping presents to make your shopping a breeze. Shop small and support your local bookstore this holiday season by purchasing gifts through our Bookshop and Libro sites. View our entire selection of December book recommendations in physical and E-book format here and audiobooks here . From all of us at Lioness Books, thank you for supporting small businesses and Happy Holidays! For the Romance Devotee
Find 12 soothing bedtime audiobooks for adults, kids, and toddlers with gentle stories and meditations to support better sleep and calm nights.
Local author Kevin Ashton talks with us about his upcoming book The Story of Stories , in which he outlines the history and development of human storytelling from night fires to the contemporary digital age. Look out for the release of Ashton’s book on March 3, 2026. Visit our Bookshop or Libro sites to pre-order The Story of Stories.
Book Review by Biff Rushton
Local author Cassidie Salley talks with us about her new gothic fantasy novel, Vanish in the Ambre . We spoke with Salley previously back in April about her book After the Light Died , and are now hosting her Book Launch Party at Wildfire Park in Leander on October 24th from 5pm to 9pm! There will be trick or treating, live music, and a food truck. Come in costume to receive a free Lioness Books tote bag! AS: Tell us about your new gothic fantasy book “Vanish in the Ambre”! CS: “It’s set in modern-day Texas, in a town called Trickem (based on the real-life town of Trickham!). All sorts of witches and fantastical creatures live there, but the town’s largest population is their infestation of ghosts. Our main character, Becca Newman, is a necromancer, specializing in reviving people’s pets and familiars. She’s on the job one day reviving a familiar when she stumbles upon a secret she wasn’t supposed to find.” AS: Do you have any favorite moments from the book—or writing it—that you can share with us? CS: “At the very beginning of the book is a chapter where Becca goes to the movies and a ghost interrupts her watching. That was the first time this story really clicked for me, trying to merge the modern-day teenager just trying to hang out with a deep and dark haunting. I spent the rest of the book trying to chase that energy I found in that one chapter.” AS: What messages or sentiments do you hope readers will take away from your book? CS: “While this is a very silly and (hopefully) funny book, a lot of its deeper themes are about grief and loneliness. Losing yourself after a traumatic event, losing friends and wondering what happened, trying to find yourself but still being labeled an outsider…all of this stuff is hard, and unfortunately a lot of young people can relate to it. While Becca is certainly not perfect, she is unapologetically herself. She’s alone because of it sometimes. Then one day, people who appreciate that about her start gravitating towards her. If there’s one thing I want people to take away from this book, it’s to not be afraid to be yourself even in the midst of grief and loneliness, because the right people will find you. If there’s another thing I want them to take away, it’s to not be afraid of being vulnerable in that grief, because sometimes that’s the only way to heal.”
