DigeeBooks

A heartfelt middle-grade novel about a theater-loving girl who uses a wheelchair for mobility and her quest to defy expectations - and gravity - from Tony award-winning actress Ali Stroker and Stacy Davidowitz

Thirteen-year-old Nat Beacon loves a lot of things: her dog Warbucks, her best friend Chloe, and competing on her wheelchair racing team, the Zoomers, to name a few. But there's one thing she's absolutely obsessed with: musicals! From Hamilton to Les Mis, there's not a cast album she hasn't memorized and belted along to. She's never actually been in a musical though, or even seen an actor who uses a wheelchair for mobility on stage. Would someone like Nat ever get cast?

But when Nat's family moves from California to New Jersey, Nat stumbles upon auditions for a kids' production of Wicked, one of her favorite musicals ever! And she gets into the ensemble! The other cast members are super cool and inclusive (well, most of them) - especially Malik, the male lead and cutest boy Nat's ever seen. But when things go awry a week before opening night, will Nat be able to cast her fears and insecurities aside and "Defy Gravity" in every sense of the song title?

Embark on an inspiring journey with "The Chance to Fly" by Ali Stroker, a memoir that captures the essence of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. Ali Stroker, an accomplished actress, singer, and dancer, shares her remarkable story of overcoming adversity and achieving success on Broadway. From her early years as a child with spina bifida to her Tony Award-winning performance in "Spring Awakening," Ali's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the limitless possibilities that lie within us all.

In "The Chance to Fly," Ali takes readers on an intimate journey through her life, sharing her experiences with honesty and vulnerability. She recounts the challenges she faced growing up with a disability, the discrimination and prejudice she encountered, and the unwavering support of her family and friends that propelled her forward. Ali's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion and the transformative power of embracing our differences.

As Ali pursued her passion for performing arts, she encountered numerous obstacles and setbacks. However, she refused to let these challenges define her. With unwavering determination, she auditioned for countless roles, faced countless rejections, and never gave up on her dreams. Her resilience and unwavering spirit are an inspiration to anyone who has faced adversity or is striving to achieve their goals.

"The Chance to Fly" is not just a memoir; it's a celebration of life, a testament to the human spirit, and a call to action for a more inclusive and equitable world. Ali's story challenges readers to embrace their own unique abilities, to defy expectations, and to never give up on their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may face.

As you delve into the pages of "The Chance to Fly," you'll be captivated by Ali Stroker's indomitable spirit, her unwavering optimism, and her unwavering belief in the power of possibility. Her journey is a reminder that we all have the potential to soar high and achieve our wildest dreams, regardless of the circumstances we may find ourselves in.