Nancy F. Goodfellow
Stories and conversations that change hearts.
Through her writing and school presentations, Nancy Goodfellow sparks empathy, understanding, and inclusion. She believes every story and conversation has the power to open minds — helping children and communities see the beauty in every kind of difference.
SPECIAL
A tender, true-to-life story about loyalty, loss, and belonging; a novel about grief, inclusion, and the courage to stay loyal.
Madison has always helped and protected Meg. Why wouldn’t she? They’re “M&M”—best friends and always together. Meg’s Down syndrome never mattered.
Until they start junior high.
Now that they’re in seventh grade, and Madison’s father has passed away, Madison is feeling insecure and alone. But when she gets the chance to join the popular kids, it’s Meg who may get left behind. Both girls are forced to figure out
what makes them who they are—and who they really want to be. A story of loss, loyalty, and acceptance, Special is for any child who believes they need to change who they are in order to fit in.
"Special by Nancy F. Goodfellow is a well-written book that offers children the value of true friendship that goes beyond physical or intellectual disabilities or differences.
I lack words to describe how much this book positively impacted me. I commend Nancy for being an exceptionally passionate and skillful writer and for using this book as a medium to advocate for children with Down syndrome. I could feel every bit of emotion as I read about Meg. I became more enlightened about Down syndrome than I was before. There are numerous positive lessons children can learn from this book, including respect and compassion for individuals with disabilities. I loved that the characters were well-developed. The writing is organized, well-paced, straightforward, and easy to comprehend. It features themes of friendship, courage, grief, acceptance, self-love, and more. I found this book both inspiring and educational. I recommend Special by Nancy F. Goodfellow to all children, teenagers, and adults who enjoy children’s books."
Reviewed by Stewart Brian for Readers’ Favorite
Changing lives, one story at a time.
22+
Years of advocacy, education, and community involvement.
20k+
Students, teachers, and caregivers reached.
3
Children who inspire Nancy's message.
1
Mission to help every child feel valued.
About Nancy
Nancy Goodfellow’s journey began more than two decades ago, when she learned her first child would be born with Down syndrome. What started as uncertainty became a lifelong mission to build understanding, empathy, and inclusion.
Over the past 22 years, Nancy has become a trusted voice in the disability community—serving as a parent support volunteer, board member, writer, and speaker for the National Association for Down Syndrome. She has presented to thousands of doctors, educators, and students, helping them see the power of acceptance through open, honest conversations.
At the heart of everything she does is her daughter, Lily, whose joy and determination continue to inspire Nancy’s advocacy and writing. As a mother of three, she’s seen firsthand how empathy transforms classrooms, friendships, and communities—and she’s dedicated to helping every child feel seen, valued, and included.