About That's My Sister

An illustration of Alana and Adrianna smiling and hugging, as in a photobooth. Alana has brown hair and is wearing a pink shirt. Adrianna has blond hair and is wearing a blue shirt.

That’s My Sister: Growing Up With My Special Needs Twin is a heartfelt story that explores the unique bond between twin sisters, Adrianna and Alana, as they prepare to graduate from high school. While Adrianna is neurotypical, Alana is neurodivergent and non-verbal, offering readers a deeply moving lens into the joys and challenges of growing up with a sibling with special needs.

Prompted by a high school essay assignment to reflect on the most influential person in her life, Adrianna takes readers on an emotional journey through their shared experiences. From childhood memories to moments of triumph and understanding, this story celebrates the unbreakable connection of family, embracing neurodiversity, and the transformative power of love.

Perfect for young adults, parents, educators, and advocates for special needs communities, That’s My Sister shines a light on acceptance, making it a must-read for anyone touched by disability, advocating for inclusivity, or learning about unconditional love and support.

About The Author, Adrianna Pakes

A picture of author Adrianna Pakes, smiling, sitting on her bed. She is wearing a white knit cardigan, dark blue shirt, and black leggings. The bed has a blue blanket, bright pillows, and lots of Squishmallow stuffies. Her room is decorated with pictures. The sun is shining through the light colored curtain.

Adrianna Pakes is a bright, spirited and fun-loving young adult who has had the unique opportunity of growing up and sharing her life with Alana, her special needs twin sister. After graduating High School with a Volleyball Championship under her belt, she was recruited to play on the Women’s Volleyball Team at a local Community College where she will study Education. Adrianna has spent her life growing up in the West Hills area of the San Fernando Valley, California. She has made many lifelong friends who share her love of outdoor activities and has spent many wonderful summers growing up boating with family in Lake Tahoe and Iowa. She continues to advocate for her twin sister, Alana, and fight for the rights and acceptance of persons with special needs in the community.

Based on Real-Life Twin Sisters

A photo of Alana and Adrianna Pakes at home, hugging. Adrianna is wearing a light yellow shirt and looks to the side, Adrianna is wearing a white strapless dress with blue flowers. She looks at the camera, smiling.

Alana Pakes, left, & Adrianna Pakes, right

A scrapbook style sticker graphic of a yellow sunflower