The What Happened To You? Series

By James Catchpole

Joe’s playground adventures explore disability, friendship and the importance of seeing children beyond assumptions.

heartfelt · insightful · engaging

Pageticker community rating

Average 4.5, from 4 readers

What is The What Happened To You? series by James Catchpole about?

Created in the early 2020s, this two-book picture-book series follows Joe, a young disabled boy with one leg, as he navigates other children’s reactions to disability. In What Happened to You? repeated questions interrupt Joe’s imaginative playground game, while You’re SO Amazing! explores the uncomfortable habit of treating disabled children as inspirational simply for being themselves. Across the series, Joe moves from frustration and confusion towards finding friendship on more equal terms. The books may appeal to children aged 3–7, especially those interested in playground adventures, humour and inclusive stories. They gently address disability, intrusive questions and ableist assumptions, with no frightening content.

Genres

Feelings/Wellbeing

About the author

James Catchpole is a British author best known for his popular picture book 'What Happened to You?'. He enjoys telling thoughtful and funny stories that help children understand differences and kindness. James lives in Oxford with his family and loves reading, writing, and sharing stories with young readers like you.

All the books in The What Happened To You? series (in order)

What Happened to You?

by James Catchpole

Book 1 of 2

Joe’s pirate game is interrupted by nosy questions—until everyone discovers what really matters.

You're So Amazing

by James Catchpole and Lucy Catchpole

Book 2 of 2

Joe’s amazing label hides a surprising truth: he wants one ordinary thing more than anything.

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