Stuttering in popular fiction and non-fiction. 

Abstract

Background: To provide an overview of books (fiction and non-fiction) in which characters showing fluency disorders appear. Attention is also paid to how they are depicted and how books can be used in a therapeutic context. Method: A thorough literature search of library catalogues, internet websites, including databases, and consultation of SLP’s working with persons who stutter (PWS). Results: Many books featuring PWS were found. These include biographies and other non-fictional books, classic and contemporary fictional stories, and books for children and young adults. Various therapeutic applications, such as in bibliotherapy, have been described. Conclusion: PWS are often portrayed in the popular media. Although they are sometimes represented negatively, many of them appear in the described stories and (auto)biographies as strong and courageous individuals. The therapeutic use of books can help to further strengthen their resilience.