My name is Anna Rakes and I am the author of Plastic Back, a children's novel about a girl growing up with scoliosis. I'm also an elementary school teacher. This site is dedicated to my work as both an author and teacher. I hope you will find it helpful.
As a child growing up with scoliosis, I never imagined telling my story, certainly not in the form of a novel. But as an adult, I realized thelack of reading material for young people dealing with scoliosis. Wearing a back brace was at best difficult and with nothing to read and relate to, I felt incredibly isolated. I was, after all, the only girl at my school with a "plastic back".
While finishing my Master's degree at the University of Virginia, I began writing Plastic Back, but soon realized it was a novel for all children, not just those with scoliosis. In reality, Plastic Back is for anyone who has scoliosis or any other medical condition separating them from others, their friends or family, or more simply, anyone who feels different.
Last year I moved just outside Austin, Texas where I now teach fourth grade. Feel free to contact me to schedule an appearance or to share your story. I'd love to meet you.
All the best,
Anna Rakes
