A New Book For Kids · Coming Soon
The Gift of the
Empty Sleeve
Discover Purpose in What Makes You Unique
Before he ever stood on a stage, Darin Sargent was just a kid growing up with one hand — trying to fit in, wondering why he was different, and slowly discovering a bigger purpose. This is his true story, written for young readers ages 5–10 and the families who love them, about high dives, baseball games, a run for class president, and the moment he learned he was fearfully and wonderfully made.
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About the Book
A True Story of Finding Purpose
Darin Sargent was born without a left hand. But that never stopped him from getting into all kinds of crazy predicaments.
He learns to high dive. He tries riding a bull. He swings for the fences in baseball. He even runs for class president.
Through every laugh, every challenge, and every bold (and sometimes bumpy) adventure, Darin discovers one truth that changes everything: he really is fearfully and wonderfully made — exactly the way God intended.
The Gift of the Empty Sleeve is a true story about growing up different, written for young readers and the families who love them. Especially suited for children ages 5–10, its message of courage and self-acceptance speaks to readers of all ages.
Published by Word Aflame Kids
A Peek Inside
Illustrated Moments From Darin’s Story
Chapter 1 · The Missing Hand
“Darin lifted his empty left sleeve. His eyes pleaded with his parents to understand.”
The question every four-year-old eventually asks, answered by two parents who’d been waiting for it.
Chapter 5 · Scrapes, Stunts, and Surgery
“I look like one of those desert men… What are they called?” “Bedouins,” Dad answered.
A hospital bandage, a homesick night, and a boy who found a way to laugh about it anyway.
Chapter 10 · A Winner
“Following his father’s motto of ‘just figure it out,’ Darin tied a string to the throttle to bypass the governor. Vroom! That was better. Much better.”
A won go-kart, a bypassed governor, and a bridge that didn’t win.
Inside the Book
What Your Kids Will Read
- 01The Missing Hand
- 02The High Dive
- 03Little Things
- 04The Hook
- 05Scrapes, Stunts, and Surgery
- 06Changes
- 07Saved!
- 08Rejected!
- 09Accepted!
- 10A Winner
- Plus a closing letter from Darin: “Thank You, Mr. Jenkins”
A Book Parents Can Use
Every Chapter Ends With a “Do Something”
A short reflection prompt closes each chapter — built for a parent, teacher, or small group to open a real conversation, not just close a book.
After Chapter 1
“Do you know kids who face different challenges than other kids? Perhaps they look, talk, or even walk differently? What can you do to accept those kids?”
After Chapter 5
“Are you bored? Don’t go looking for trouble. Instead help someone. Nothing is more exciting than making someone else happy.”
After Chapter 10
“What have you learned from Darin’s story? How can you use what you have learned to become a better person? How can you use it to encourage others?”
A Note From Darin
Growing up with a visible difference, I faced my share of challenges. But I also had a childhood full of unforgettable memories — and people who helped me see myself the way God saw me all along.
I wrote this book for every kid who has ever felt like the thing that makes them different might be the thing that disqualifies them. It isn’t. It’s the gift.
I can’t wait to share this story with your family.
— Darin
Coming Soon
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