A New Children’s Book Brings Speech Therapy to Life
While children’s literature often explores whimsical adventures and friendships, few characters embark on a journey through speech therapy. “Ruby Rose, to Speech She Goes!” changes this narrative. Created by Taylor Clarkson, a master’s student at Northern Arizona University (NAU), the book aims to portray speech therapy as an enjoyable experience, offering representation for children with communication disorders.
Taylor Clarkson, who developed Ruby Rose as part of her undergraduate Honors capstone, teamed up with fellow speech-language pathology student and artist Guyliliane Kuete to publish the book. Kuete’s illustrations vividly bring Ruby to life, providing young readers with a relatable character facing a challenge not often highlighted in children’s stories.
“Visually bringing this story to life felt so important because it gives kids a relatable doorway into understanding challenges that aren’t often highlighted,” Kuete expressed. “I hope this book can help young children empathize with each other, stay open-minded and learn to embrace people’s differences.”
In addition to its unique character focus, “Ruby Rose, to Speech She Goes!” includes guides for parents and caregivers. These guides, suggested by Mary Harmon, an associate professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, aim to assist children in developing emergent literacy skills, emphasizing the importance of reading aloud.
“I hope this book can help children preparing to start school realize that everyone is unique, and that’s a beautiful thing,” Clarkson noted. “I also hope that Ruby Rose will connect children and their families by fostering deeper conversations and that adults will feel supported as they talk with their children through the storybook reading process.”
Although no sequel is currently planned, both creators have ideas for Ruby Rose’s future adventures. Clarkson envisions introducing new friends with speech and language needs, while Kuete hopes to expand on the representation of different ethnicities and cultures.
The project has not only showcased the talents of Clarkson and Kuete but also prepared them for their careers in speech-language pathology. As they continue their academic journeys, both remain committed to the impact of Ruby Rose’s story.
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