All rights reserved.
Book Reviews
Honored to have
18 book reviews here
so far, and 18 different
ones on Amazon.com
(Last updated 4/7/11)
18 book reviews here
so far, and 18 different
ones on Amazon.com
(Last updated 4/7/11)
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"Katie Chalmers provides a simple, clear and concise explanation of Celiac Disease that allows
children to easily understand how to live a happy, healthy life without gluten. Mommy, What is Celiac
Disease? sheds a fun light on Celiac and empowers children of all ages to embrace their gluten-free
diet and be proud to live gluten-free! The book is a great learning tool that is both entertaining and
informative. If you are the parent of a Celiac child, you need to get a copy of this book!"
-Chad Hines, Founder, GlutenFreeFaces.com & Celiac Disease Foundation Board Member
"Written from the unique perspective of a celiac mother of a celiac child, Mommy, What is Celiac
Disease? isn't just for the child who is newly diagnosed, but for the parent as well. We all want our
kids to be happy and healthy, and a diagnosis of celiac can feel like the very opposite when it
happens to your child. Putting a positive spin on this new reality, emphasizing all the good things
that won't change and all the ways to make other changes fun, this book walks both mother and child
through the conversation in an engaging, non-threatening way. A book every parent of a celiac child
will want to have at the ready."
-Jules E. Dowler Shepard
Author, Nearly Normal Cooking for Gluten-Free Eating; The First Year: Celiac Disease
and Living Gluten Free; and Free for All Cooking: 150 Easy Gluten-Free,
Allergen-Friendly Recipes the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Founder, Jules Gluten Free
"Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a unique children's book that thoughtfully explains Celiac Disease to a
newly diagnosed child. Author Katie Chalmers has created a gem of a book that I feel would be useful on
the shelf of every Celiac child, GI doctor, public and school library, and school classroom. Katie Chalmers
wrote this book for her young daughter with Celiac disease, which undoubtedly accounts for the loving tone
in which this book is presented.
My own young daughter was diagnosed with Celiac Disease three years ago and already has a
comprehensive understanding of Celiac Disease, but we still found this book engaging and extremely
enjoyable. I would have loved to have read this to her when she was newly diagnosed, as I feel it explains
Celiac Disease more thoroughly to a child than other books of this type that we have read. We both
especially like the illustrations, which were colorful and married well with the story.
I highly recommend this book!"
-Cinde Shields at Gluten Free Taste of Home
See entire article for yourself at:glutenfreetasteofhome.blogspot.com
"With so many children being diagnosed with Celiac Disease, there’s got to be that very painful moment
when parents have to explain what it means to not be able to eat gluten and how important it is in order to
stay healthy. As a former elementary school teacher, I know the power of using stories to teach....Now there’
s a book parents and teachers can reach for to teach children about Celiac Disease.
Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a sweet, loving conversation between a mom and daughter that
explains the disease and treatment on a child’s level. Katie goes into detail about what happens when
someone with Celiac eats gluten and talks about all the great foods that can be eaten on a gluten-free diet.
This is the perfect gift for any child with Celiac disease, for teachers, and school nurses. I would even give a
copy to the family pediatrician."
-Amy Green at Simply Sugar and Gluten Free
See entire article for yourself at: simplysugarandglutenfree.com
"Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease? has a refreshingly positive message throughout and the pictures are
simply stunning...I read the book from two perspectives. One, as the celiac mom of a celiac child and the
other, as a little girl who had silent celiac disease too, but wasn’t lucky enough to be diagnosed at such a
young age, before the more serious health consequences had a chance to grab hold of me. Oh how I wish I
could have been as lucky as the little girl in this book!
The story unfolds as Mother and daughter are taking a walk in the park on a beautiful autumn day. Mommy
needs to tell her little girl she has just been diagnosed with celiac disease and that life is going to be
changing just a bit. Without skipping a beat, mom comfortingly reassures her daughter that everything is
going to be okay, as she creatively explains what celiac disease is and how gluten hurts her little body even
if it doesn’t make her look or feel sick when she eats it. Mom goes on to emphasize all the wonderful
aspects that a major lifestyle change like this can bring, like having fun in the kitchen!
What I liked most, though, about this unique new book for kids with celiac, is how Katie touches on a very
important issue, one that is so near and dear to my heart — the importance of inclusion and support from
our loved ones."
-Heidi Kelly at Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom
See entire article for yourself at: adventuresofaglutenfreemom.com
"I was able to read this book a month or so ago and was really impressed with it. Not only are the
pictures attractive to the adult eye, but to a young child’s eye, too. I’ve shared this book with my
daughter (8) and God daughter (3) and they both loved the little girl (and her curly hair). Inspiration for
the little girl in the book came from Chalmers’ own daughter, Morgan, who was diagnosed with Celiac
Disease in 2008. The book helps explain what Celiac Disease is in terms that are easy for a younger
child to understand. Topics covered in the book include foods that are safe for the gluten-free diet and
ideas about what to do when your child needs to avoid gluten-containing food away from home and
bring along something safe to eat. The book ends by talking about how eating is such a small part of
life and concentrating on all of the fun things there are to do in life helps us keep a positive attitude. I
love all of the positivity radiating from this book! It is easy to get discouraged with a new diagnosis,
especially one that involves a major diet change like the gluten-free diet. Explaining all of the details
can be made just a little easier (and fun) with a book like Mommy, What is Celiac Disease?"
-Kim Bouldin at Gluten Free is Life
See entire article for yourself at: glutenfreeislife.com
“Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease? by Katie Chalmers is a children’s book that is beautifully illustrated and
written as a dialogue between a mother and daughter... I found this book to be a thoughtfully written
suggestion of how to introduce and explain Celiac Disease to a child. It includes questions and answers
about what Celiac Disease is, what gluten is, what it does to the body, and what that means for the family.
As I read the book, I was drawn in by how the mother creatively explains Celiac Disease to her daughter in a
language and terminology that a young child can easily understand. I was surprised by the detail that was
put into describing the physical effects on the body. But, it is not a medical book. It was all explained in
language that is appropriate for young children. And best of all, it is written with a very positive, loving voice
that embraces the diagnosis and sees it as an opportunity to thrive.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to explain Celiac Disease to a child 3-10 years. I think it’
s probably too detailed for a younger child to understand. However, even if you have younger children, it
would be a good book for parents to read. It certainly gives you ideas about how you can continue to explain
the disease to them as they get older. Older children may also be interested to read it as a first step to
understanding the disease. I feel like it is written for younger children, with analogies to nature and
playground equipment. So, older children may not find the references to playground equipment very exciting,
but they will be able to relate and easily understand the comparisons.
Buy the book. If you have children, grandchildren, or other young people who are curious about Celiac
Disease, you can buy the book at Katie Chalmers’ website. Buy one for yourself, for friends, and maybe one
to donate to your school’s library and the public library. It would be an easy way to introduce friends and
classmates to Celiac Disease, and hopefully, help them gain a good understanding of what gluten free
means. Perhaps it will even impress upon the teachers how important it is for children with Celiac Disease
to remain gluten free. It isn’t just a diet of choice. For Celiacs, it is a necessary diet for a healthy life.
-Heather at Celiac Family
See entire article for yourself at: celiacfamily.com
“‘Mommy, what is celiac disease?’ How many parents had to answer that question? How do you explain
everything that celiac disease entails to a young child? There are dozens of books that list symptoms, foods
that are safe and those that should be avoided, recipes, tips for traveling, etc., but can you think of any that
are geared towards children? Drawing a blank?
Luckily new author, Katie Chalmers, fills that void with her new children's book, Mommy, What is Celiac
Disease? The story of a little girl and her mother playing at the park while talking about celiac answers the
common questions that kids may have when they first learn they've been diagnosed with the disease. Which
snacks are OK, can they still eat cake and ice cream at birthday parties, and what about sandwiches and
fried foods? They all get answered. The scientific aspects of gluten also get discussed. What gluten is, how
it effects your body, and how to follow a gluten free diet are all mentioned. The book ends with a resource
page and Chalmers' favorite gluten free go-to products. I thought this book was adorable. Not only is the
quizzical little girl darling, but the story explains celiac disease in the simplest of ways. While reading I
thought to myself, "This book would be great for adults too!" I've had several encounters with people that just
didn't get it. Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? breaks it down, making it understandable for anyone.
-Betsy at Gluten Free Betsy
See entire article for yourself at: glutenfreebetsy.com
“Katie’s book is beautifully written and illustrated. Written for children who have been diagnosed with celiac,
it focuses on the disease in simple terms as well as all the wonderful real food that those who are gluten
free can eat. Of course, I don’t need to tell you that I love that approach. That’s the gluten free easily—gfe—
way, and it works. Along with the text, Katie has created some truly captivating illustrations. I’ve never seen
any others exactly like them before.”
-Shirley Braden at Gluten Free Easily
See entire article for yourself at: glutenfreeeasily.com
Raising Awareness for Celiac Disease Via a Children's Book
"The subtitle to the book is A look at the sunny side of being gluten-free, which explains the approach taken
by the author for her and her daughter Morgan, both of whom have Celiac. As the subtitle indicates, this book
educates children (as well as adults) about Celiac Disease in a very positive light, focusing on what kids
with Celiac CAN eat and how these foods will make them strong and healthy. This is so important as
parents are the ones that set the tone for how their children will approach Celiac Disease and a gluten-free
diet for the rest of their lives. This book is a perfect example for how to properly set that example.
As a registered dietitian, I also like that the majority of foods mentioned are health-promoting, with a
minimal focus on treats such as cupcakes and ice cream for birthday parties. While keeping it positive,
the narrative also manages to educate kids about what Celiac is, how it affects the body and the importance
of managing a strictly gluten-free lifestyle to maintain health. Kudos to Katie Chalmers for achieving
both ends.
The story also addresses how Celiac is (and is not) gotten, whether medicine will need to be taken, and that
living gluten-free is a team approach for the whole family to engage in. Clearly, Katie Chalmers wrote this
book keeping in mind all of the issues she addressed when her daughter, Morgan, was diagnosed. With
this book, she is making a difficult task much easier for parents of Celiac children. This is a fantastic book
for parents and family members of young Celiacs, as well as for teachers to foster understanding and
tolerance of the disease in the classroom."
-Rachel Begun, MS, RD - Registered Dietitian, Nutrition Communication
See entire article for yourself at: The Gluten-Free RD
New Children’s Book Gives Sunny Side of Celiac
"Finally, here’s a great resource to help children see the positive side of life with celiac! This new children’s
book (Mommy, What is Celiac Disease?) by Katie Chalmers explains celiac on a small child’s level by using
a positive conversation between a mother and daughter. It explains just enough about celiac, gluten, and the
effects of gluten on the body of a person with celiac and encourages a positive, adventurous attitude about
the new life ahead for a celiac child.
What is the treatment? The book gives the “sunny” side of not needing medication, trying out new foods and
recipes, and still being able to participate in the fun events of childhood. It also discusses what the new
lifestyle will consist of – that many of the old favorites are gluten free and the rest can be made in a new way.
Another helpful thing about the story is that it highlights the fact that it is not contagious, which is a key
concept for other children to understand. It’s high quality, high gloss, nicely illustrated and shows kids that
they can be ambassadors and role models for others in their new adventure.
This book is a great overview and a perfect resource for any child that has celiac or has any contact with
anyone with celiac.
* Families with small children where any of the members have celiac
* Classroom resource for children’s class where there is a celiac child
* Great basic education for teachers, grandparents, relatives and caregivers of children with celiac
* Health care providers or anyone that works with celiac children and families
* Church groups that have a celiac child
* For educating the families of your celiac child’s friends
I’d recommend buying a few so that you can enlighten those who come in contact with your celiac child in a
simple and non-threatening manner, while bringing your child to a place of acceptance and even excitement
about the adventure ahead."
Nancy McEachern, Founder of www.glutenfreeville.com
See entire article for yourself at: http://glutenfreeville.com/research/new-childrens-book-gives-sunny-side-of-celiac
New kids’ celiac book available at Wegmans
"Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a new kids’ book that explains the gluten-free diet using a
positive tone...(Wegmans info. here)...When Katie Chalmers and her daughter were diagnosed with
celiac disease in 2008, Katie began writing a children’s picture book about celiac disease. After
reading a free copy of the book, it is clear that this is an optimistic book based on personal
experiences. The illustrations are very colorful and appealing. The book answers many questions
about celiac disease and eating gluten-free, thus alleviating potential worries and comforting young
children. Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a good resource for explaining celiac disease to newly
diagnosed children and their classmates in a simple and encouraging manner. At the end of the
book, the author includes her family’s favorite gluten-free brands, which will be helpful to readers."
-Sandra Robins, Writer for D.C. Gluten-Free Examiner
See entire article for yourself at: http://www.examiner.com/gluten-free-in-washington-dc/new-kids-celiac-book
Review: Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease?
"This one-of-a-kind book is gracefully & eloquently written by a Mom who has celiac disease. Both the
author, Katie Chalmers and her daughter, Morgan, were diagnosed with celiac disease a little over 2 years
ago. Since that time they have learned to embrace, and make the best, out of living gluten-free.
The book encompasses what celiac disease and the gluten free diet entail in language that children can
understand, all the while encouraging dialogue for additional questions. A must-have for any child with
celiac disease, this book is also a must-read for any elementary school story hour that has a child with
celiac disease in the classroom.
I like that Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease? emphasizes the positive, rather than the negative, attributes of
a gluten-free diet. However, in no way does this book sugar-coat this disease. Instead Mommy, What Is
Celiac Disease? puts a positive spin on a serious subject that many children may find difficult to understand
and accept."
-Kathleen Reale, Founder of www.BeFreeForMe.com
See entire article for yourself at: http://www.befreeforme.com/blog/?p=3729
"I was recently given the opportunity to review this new children’s book called Mommy What is Celiac
Disease? It is fabulous! When we first received the book, I read it first, then I read it to my daughter.
It was so fun to watch her get so excited about this book, a book on her level of understanding about
the disease.
The book explains Celiac Disease in a very easy way to understand. There are so many great
analogies and the illustrations are so wonderful! It is so great that my daughter plans to take it to her
homeschool co-op to share with her peers. She wants everyone to understand Celiac Disease, and
why she doesn’t eat wheat bread, cookies, and cakes like her friends. It is a simple, fun read, yet
very informative about the disease. My favorite thing about the book is how positive Katie keeps the
whole concept of having Celiac Disease. I think that is so important, especially in dealing with
children, that you don’t make it out to be a horrible disease. If your family is faced with going gluten
free, this is a great way to share it with others and encourage you and your family in your walk with
the disease.
-Jenny at Gluten Free Birmingham
See entire article for yourself at: www.glutenfreebirmingham.com
"This book is perfect to help explain all the important information without overwhelming your child.
Katie’s inspiration for the little girl in the book was her daughter, Morgan, after she was diagnosed in
2008. The book helps explain what Celiac Disease is in terms that are easy for a younger child to
understand. The pictures are colorful and eye-catching. The book covers foods that are safe for the
gluten-free diet and ideas about what to do when your child needs to avoid gluten-containing food
away from home and bring along something safe to eat. The book ends by talking about how eating is
such a small part of life and concentrating on all of the fun things there are to do in life helps us keep
a positive attitude."
-Kimberly Bouldin, Writer for Celiac-Disease.com
See entire article for yourself at: http://celiac-disease.com/book-review-mommy-what-is-celiac-disease/
Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? -- a great picture book for kids
"Katie Chalmers, author of Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? a colorfully designed children's book,
brings us a wonderful resource for children who are trying to understand what it means to be a Celiac.
I was so excited to hear about this children's book! I thought it was brilliant Katie wrote a book geared
towards children explaining exactly why people with Celiac Disease can not eat gluten. I am still not
quite sure my kids fully understand why I do not eat gluten. They just know I am allergic to a lot of
foods. I can not wait to read them this book! Thank you Katie for your beautiful creation and thank you
for helping to educate our children about Celiac Disease. You are an inspiration!"
-Amy Twomey, www.iamaceliac.blogspot.com
See entire article for yourself at:http://momsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/10/post-6.html
Gluten Free Children's Book Review
"...What’s great about Katie’s book is that it does not explain Celiac as a singular experience but
rather something an entire family must learn to come together and deal with. The central message of
you are not alone is a powerful one that Katie managed to capture beautifully. Her focus was not on
the taking away of foods but rather a learning experience on what (and why) foods could be safely
enjoyed and what a Celiac must also look out for..... I can see this book being great to not only
educate children and their friends about Celiac disease but also for various family members and
friends who still might not get it yet. I can think of a few people in my life that could benefit from this
book. It is important for all of us to take a page from Katie’s book in that we are not alone and being
Celiac is not limiting but actually empowering and uniting."
Michael De Cicco-Butz, www.glutenfreemike.com
See entire article for yourself at:www.glutenfreemike.com
children to easily understand how to live a happy, healthy life without gluten. Mommy, What is Celiac
Disease? sheds a fun light on Celiac and empowers children of all ages to embrace their gluten-free
diet and be proud to live gluten-free! The book is a great learning tool that is both entertaining and
informative. If you are the parent of a Celiac child, you need to get a copy of this book!"
-Chad Hines, Founder, GlutenFreeFaces.com & Celiac Disease Foundation Board Member
"Written from the unique perspective of a celiac mother of a celiac child, Mommy, What is Celiac
Disease? isn't just for the child who is newly diagnosed, but for the parent as well. We all want our
kids to be happy and healthy, and a diagnosis of celiac can feel like the very opposite when it
happens to your child. Putting a positive spin on this new reality, emphasizing all the good things
that won't change and all the ways to make other changes fun, this book walks both mother and child
through the conversation in an engaging, non-threatening way. A book every parent of a celiac child
will want to have at the ready."
-Jules E. Dowler Shepard
Author, Nearly Normal Cooking for Gluten-Free Eating; The First Year: Celiac Disease
and Living Gluten Free; and Free for All Cooking: 150 Easy Gluten-Free,
Allergen-Friendly Recipes the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Founder, Jules Gluten Free
"Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a unique children's book that thoughtfully explains Celiac Disease to a
newly diagnosed child. Author Katie Chalmers has created a gem of a book that I feel would be useful on
the shelf of every Celiac child, GI doctor, public and school library, and school classroom. Katie Chalmers
wrote this book for her young daughter with Celiac disease, which undoubtedly accounts for the loving tone
in which this book is presented.
My own young daughter was diagnosed with Celiac Disease three years ago and already has a
comprehensive understanding of Celiac Disease, but we still found this book engaging and extremely
enjoyable. I would have loved to have read this to her when she was newly diagnosed, as I feel it explains
Celiac Disease more thoroughly to a child than other books of this type that we have read. We both
especially like the illustrations, which were colorful and married well with the story.
I highly recommend this book!"
-Cinde Shields at Gluten Free Taste of Home
See entire article for yourself at:glutenfreetasteofhome.blogspot.com
"With so many children being diagnosed with Celiac Disease, there’s got to be that very painful moment
when parents have to explain what it means to not be able to eat gluten and how important it is in order to
stay healthy. As a former elementary school teacher, I know the power of using stories to teach....Now there’
s a book parents and teachers can reach for to teach children about Celiac Disease.
Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a sweet, loving conversation between a mom and daughter that
explains the disease and treatment on a child’s level. Katie goes into detail about what happens when
someone with Celiac eats gluten and talks about all the great foods that can be eaten on a gluten-free diet.
This is the perfect gift for any child with Celiac disease, for teachers, and school nurses. I would even give a
copy to the family pediatrician."
-Amy Green at Simply Sugar and Gluten Free
See entire article for yourself at: simplysugarandglutenfree.com
"Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease? has a refreshingly positive message throughout and the pictures are
simply stunning...I read the book from two perspectives. One, as the celiac mom of a celiac child and the
other, as a little girl who had silent celiac disease too, but wasn’t lucky enough to be diagnosed at such a
young age, before the more serious health consequences had a chance to grab hold of me. Oh how I wish I
could have been as lucky as the little girl in this book!
The story unfolds as Mother and daughter are taking a walk in the park on a beautiful autumn day. Mommy
needs to tell her little girl she has just been diagnosed with celiac disease and that life is going to be
changing just a bit. Without skipping a beat, mom comfortingly reassures her daughter that everything is
going to be okay, as she creatively explains what celiac disease is and how gluten hurts her little body even
if it doesn’t make her look or feel sick when she eats it. Mom goes on to emphasize all the wonderful
aspects that a major lifestyle change like this can bring, like having fun in the kitchen!
What I liked most, though, about this unique new book for kids with celiac, is how Katie touches on a very
important issue, one that is so near and dear to my heart — the importance of inclusion and support from
our loved ones."
-Heidi Kelly at Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom
See entire article for yourself at: adventuresofaglutenfreemom.com
"I was able to read this book a month or so ago and was really impressed with it. Not only are the
pictures attractive to the adult eye, but to a young child’s eye, too. I’ve shared this book with my
daughter (8) and God daughter (3) and they both loved the little girl (and her curly hair). Inspiration for
the little girl in the book came from Chalmers’ own daughter, Morgan, who was diagnosed with Celiac
Disease in 2008. The book helps explain what Celiac Disease is in terms that are easy for a younger
child to understand. Topics covered in the book include foods that are safe for the gluten-free diet and
ideas about what to do when your child needs to avoid gluten-containing food away from home and
bring along something safe to eat. The book ends by talking about how eating is such a small part of
life and concentrating on all of the fun things there are to do in life helps us keep a positive attitude. I
love all of the positivity radiating from this book! It is easy to get discouraged with a new diagnosis,
especially one that involves a major diet change like the gluten-free diet. Explaining all of the details
can be made just a little easier (and fun) with a book like Mommy, What is Celiac Disease?"
-Kim Bouldin at Gluten Free is Life
See entire article for yourself at: glutenfreeislife.com
“Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease? by Katie Chalmers is a children’s book that is beautifully illustrated and
written as a dialogue between a mother and daughter... I found this book to be a thoughtfully written
suggestion of how to introduce and explain Celiac Disease to a child. It includes questions and answers
about what Celiac Disease is, what gluten is, what it does to the body, and what that means for the family.
As I read the book, I was drawn in by how the mother creatively explains Celiac Disease to her daughter in a
language and terminology that a young child can easily understand. I was surprised by the detail that was
put into describing the physical effects on the body. But, it is not a medical book. It was all explained in
language that is appropriate for young children. And best of all, it is written with a very positive, loving voice
that embraces the diagnosis and sees it as an opportunity to thrive.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to explain Celiac Disease to a child 3-10 years. I think it’
s probably too detailed for a younger child to understand. However, even if you have younger children, it
would be a good book for parents to read. It certainly gives you ideas about how you can continue to explain
the disease to them as they get older. Older children may also be interested to read it as a first step to
understanding the disease. I feel like it is written for younger children, with analogies to nature and
playground equipment. So, older children may not find the references to playground equipment very exciting,
but they will be able to relate and easily understand the comparisons.
Buy the book. If you have children, grandchildren, or other young people who are curious about Celiac
Disease, you can buy the book at Katie Chalmers’ website. Buy one for yourself, for friends, and maybe one
to donate to your school’s library and the public library. It would be an easy way to introduce friends and
classmates to Celiac Disease, and hopefully, help them gain a good understanding of what gluten free
means. Perhaps it will even impress upon the teachers how important it is for children with Celiac Disease
to remain gluten free. It isn’t just a diet of choice. For Celiacs, it is a necessary diet for a healthy life.
-Heather at Celiac Family
See entire article for yourself at: celiacfamily.com
“‘Mommy, what is celiac disease?’ How many parents had to answer that question? How do you explain
everything that celiac disease entails to a young child? There are dozens of books that list symptoms, foods
that are safe and those that should be avoided, recipes, tips for traveling, etc., but can you think of any that
are geared towards children? Drawing a blank?
Luckily new author, Katie Chalmers, fills that void with her new children's book, Mommy, What is Celiac
Disease? The story of a little girl and her mother playing at the park while talking about celiac answers the
common questions that kids may have when they first learn they've been diagnosed with the disease. Which
snacks are OK, can they still eat cake and ice cream at birthday parties, and what about sandwiches and
fried foods? They all get answered. The scientific aspects of gluten also get discussed. What gluten is, how
it effects your body, and how to follow a gluten free diet are all mentioned. The book ends with a resource
page and Chalmers' favorite gluten free go-to products. I thought this book was adorable. Not only is the
quizzical little girl darling, but the story explains celiac disease in the simplest of ways. While reading I
thought to myself, "This book would be great for adults too!" I've had several encounters with people that just
didn't get it. Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? breaks it down, making it understandable for anyone.
-Betsy at Gluten Free Betsy
See entire article for yourself at: glutenfreebetsy.com
“Katie’s book is beautifully written and illustrated. Written for children who have been diagnosed with celiac,
it focuses on the disease in simple terms as well as all the wonderful real food that those who are gluten
free can eat. Of course, I don’t need to tell you that I love that approach. That’s the gluten free easily—gfe—
way, and it works. Along with the text, Katie has created some truly captivating illustrations. I’ve never seen
any others exactly like them before.”
-Shirley Braden at Gluten Free Easily
See entire article for yourself at: glutenfreeeasily.com
Raising Awareness for Celiac Disease Via a Children's Book
"The subtitle to the book is A look at the sunny side of being gluten-free, which explains the approach taken
by the author for her and her daughter Morgan, both of whom have Celiac. As the subtitle indicates, this book
educates children (as well as adults) about Celiac Disease in a very positive light, focusing on what kids
with Celiac CAN eat and how these foods will make them strong and healthy. This is so important as
parents are the ones that set the tone for how their children will approach Celiac Disease and a gluten-free
diet for the rest of their lives. This book is a perfect example for how to properly set that example.
As a registered dietitian, I also like that the majority of foods mentioned are health-promoting, with a
minimal focus on treats such as cupcakes and ice cream for birthday parties. While keeping it positive,
the narrative also manages to educate kids about what Celiac is, how it affects the body and the importance
of managing a strictly gluten-free lifestyle to maintain health. Kudos to Katie Chalmers for achieving
both ends.
The story also addresses how Celiac is (and is not) gotten, whether medicine will need to be taken, and that
living gluten-free is a team approach for the whole family to engage in. Clearly, Katie Chalmers wrote this
book keeping in mind all of the issues she addressed when her daughter, Morgan, was diagnosed. With
this book, she is making a difficult task much easier for parents of Celiac children. This is a fantastic book
for parents and family members of young Celiacs, as well as for teachers to foster understanding and
tolerance of the disease in the classroom."
-Rachel Begun, MS, RD - Registered Dietitian, Nutrition Communication
See entire article for yourself at: The Gluten-Free RD
New Children’s Book Gives Sunny Side of Celiac
"Finally, here’s a great resource to help children see the positive side of life with celiac! This new children’s
book (Mommy, What is Celiac Disease?) by Katie Chalmers explains celiac on a small child’s level by using
a positive conversation between a mother and daughter. It explains just enough about celiac, gluten, and the
effects of gluten on the body of a person with celiac and encourages a positive, adventurous attitude about
the new life ahead for a celiac child.
What is the treatment? The book gives the “sunny” side of not needing medication, trying out new foods and
recipes, and still being able to participate in the fun events of childhood. It also discusses what the new
lifestyle will consist of – that many of the old favorites are gluten free and the rest can be made in a new way.
Another helpful thing about the story is that it highlights the fact that it is not contagious, which is a key
concept for other children to understand. It’s high quality, high gloss, nicely illustrated and shows kids that
they can be ambassadors and role models for others in their new adventure.
This book is a great overview and a perfect resource for any child that has celiac or has any contact with
anyone with celiac.
* Families with small children where any of the members have celiac
* Classroom resource for children’s class where there is a celiac child
* Great basic education for teachers, grandparents, relatives and caregivers of children with celiac
* Health care providers or anyone that works with celiac children and families
* Church groups that have a celiac child
* For educating the families of your celiac child’s friends
I’d recommend buying a few so that you can enlighten those who come in contact with your celiac child in a
simple and non-threatening manner, while bringing your child to a place of acceptance and even excitement
about the adventure ahead."
Nancy McEachern, Founder of www.glutenfreeville.com
See entire article for yourself at: http://glutenfreeville.com/research/new-childrens-book-gives-sunny-side-of-celiac
New kids’ celiac book available at Wegmans
"Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a new kids’ book that explains the gluten-free diet using a
positive tone...(Wegmans info. here)...When Katie Chalmers and her daughter were diagnosed with
celiac disease in 2008, Katie began writing a children’s picture book about celiac disease. After
reading a free copy of the book, it is clear that this is an optimistic book based on personal
experiences. The illustrations are very colorful and appealing. The book answers many questions
about celiac disease and eating gluten-free, thus alleviating potential worries and comforting young
children. Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? is a good resource for explaining celiac disease to newly
diagnosed children and their classmates in a simple and encouraging manner. At the end of the
book, the author includes her family’s favorite gluten-free brands, which will be helpful to readers."
-Sandra Robins, Writer for D.C. Gluten-Free Examiner
See entire article for yourself at: http://www.examiner.com/gluten-free-in-washington-dc/new-kids-celiac-book
Review: Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease?
"This one-of-a-kind book is gracefully & eloquently written by a Mom who has celiac disease. Both the
author, Katie Chalmers and her daughter, Morgan, were diagnosed with celiac disease a little over 2 years
ago. Since that time they have learned to embrace, and make the best, out of living gluten-free.
The book encompasses what celiac disease and the gluten free diet entail in language that children can
understand, all the while encouraging dialogue for additional questions. A must-have for any child with
celiac disease, this book is also a must-read for any elementary school story hour that has a child with
celiac disease in the classroom.
I like that Mommy, What Is Celiac Disease? emphasizes the positive, rather than the negative, attributes of
a gluten-free diet. However, in no way does this book sugar-coat this disease. Instead Mommy, What Is
Celiac Disease? puts a positive spin on a serious subject that many children may find difficult to understand
and accept."
-Kathleen Reale, Founder of www.BeFreeForMe.com
See entire article for yourself at: http://www.befreeforme.com/blog/?p=3729
"I was recently given the opportunity to review this new children’s book called Mommy What is Celiac
Disease? It is fabulous! When we first received the book, I read it first, then I read it to my daughter.
It was so fun to watch her get so excited about this book, a book on her level of understanding about
the disease.
The book explains Celiac Disease in a very easy way to understand. There are so many great
analogies and the illustrations are so wonderful! It is so great that my daughter plans to take it to her
homeschool co-op to share with her peers. She wants everyone to understand Celiac Disease, and
why she doesn’t eat wheat bread, cookies, and cakes like her friends. It is a simple, fun read, yet
very informative about the disease. My favorite thing about the book is how positive Katie keeps the
whole concept of having Celiac Disease. I think that is so important, especially in dealing with
children, that you don’t make it out to be a horrible disease. If your family is faced with going gluten
free, this is a great way to share it with others and encourage you and your family in your walk with
the disease.
-Jenny at Gluten Free Birmingham
See entire article for yourself at: www.glutenfreebirmingham.com
"This book is perfect to help explain all the important information without overwhelming your child.
Katie’s inspiration for the little girl in the book was her daughter, Morgan, after she was diagnosed in
2008. The book helps explain what Celiac Disease is in terms that are easy for a younger child to
understand. The pictures are colorful and eye-catching. The book covers foods that are safe for the
gluten-free diet and ideas about what to do when your child needs to avoid gluten-containing food
away from home and bring along something safe to eat. The book ends by talking about how eating is
such a small part of life and concentrating on all of the fun things there are to do in life helps us keep
a positive attitude."
-Kimberly Bouldin, Writer for Celiac-Disease.com
See entire article for yourself at: http://celiac-disease.com/book-review-mommy-what-is-celiac-disease/
Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? -- a great picture book for kids
"Katie Chalmers, author of Mommy, What is Celiac Disease? a colorfully designed children's book,
brings us a wonderful resource for children who are trying to understand what it means to be a Celiac.
I was so excited to hear about this children's book! I thought it was brilliant Katie wrote a book geared
towards children explaining exactly why people with Celiac Disease can not eat gluten. I am still not
quite sure my kids fully understand why I do not eat gluten. They just know I am allergic to a lot of
foods. I can not wait to read them this book! Thank you Katie for your beautiful creation and thank you
for helping to educate our children about Celiac Disease. You are an inspiration!"
-Amy Twomey, www.iamaceliac.blogspot.com
See entire article for yourself at:http://momsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2010/10/post-6.html
Gluten Free Children's Book Review
"...What’s great about Katie’s book is that it does not explain Celiac as a singular experience but
rather something an entire family must learn to come together and deal with. The central message of
you are not alone is a powerful one that Katie managed to capture beautifully. Her focus was not on
the taking away of foods but rather a learning experience on what (and why) foods could be safely
enjoyed and what a Celiac must also look out for..... I can see this book being great to not only
educate children and their friends about Celiac disease but also for various family members and
friends who still might not get it yet. I can think of a few people in my life that could benefit from this
book. It is important for all of us to take a page from Katie’s book in that we are not alone and being
Celiac is not limiting but actually empowering and uniting."
Michael De Cicco-Butz, www.glutenfreemike.com
See entire article for yourself at:www.glutenfreemike.com
Emails from Readers:
"My mother recently
purchased Mommy, What
is Celiac Disease? She
ordered it as my 3 year old
daughter was recently
diagnosed. The book
arrived yesterday and we
have read it more than 5
times already. It is a great
book and will help my
daughter to understand her
disease. I have done my
very best to explain to her
about the changes we have
made due to the diagnosis
and this book reinforces
what we have told her
and/or fills in where we
might have been missing
some information. Thank
you so much."
-Dallas F., Chicago, IL
"My mother recently
purchased Mommy, What
is Celiac Disease? She
ordered it as my 3 year old
daughter was recently
diagnosed. The book
arrived yesterday and we
have read it more than 5
times already. It is a great
book and will help my
daughter to understand her
disease. I have done my
very best to explain to her
about the changes we have
made due to the diagnosis
and this book reinforces
what we have told her
and/or fills in where we
might have been missing
some information. Thank
you so much."
-Dallas F., Chicago, IL