Diane Morrow-Kondos

Magic City Books is proud to welcome Diane Morrow-Kondos for a special book launch event celebrating her new memoir, The Long Road to Happy: A Sister’s Journey Through Her Brother’s Disabilities, on Thursday January 26 at 7:00 pm in the Algonquin Room at Magic City Books.

The Long Road to Happy is a candid look at one family’s journey raising a son with intellectual disabilities. Although each family’s situation is unique, the book addresses issues many families face—from receiving the diagnosis to making the difficult decision of placement upon a parent’s death. Told from the perspective of a sibling, it explores how siblings of individuals with special needs often encounter a wide range of experiences and emotions that are rarely directly acknowledged by their family or the world.

The Long Road to Happy also looks at the history of disabilities in America, touching on laws, social stigmas, labels, and treatment of the intellectually disabled. Whether that be mental illness, physical disabilities, or intellectual challenges, when one family member faces difficulties, the entire family is impacted.

Diane Morrow-Kondos grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the third of four children—two older sisters and a younger brother David who was diagnosed with intellectual disabilities while still a child. Upon the passing of her mother, Diane assumed the role of David’s guardian and champion.

Diane has a master’s degree from Oklahoma State University, where she also earned her bachelor’s degree while swimming on the Cowgirl swim team. A retired teacher, she is a freelance writer, avid reader, and a triathlete and open water swimmer. She makes her home in Tulsa.  The Long Road to Happy is her first book.