In February 2020, Brayden Harrington attended a campaign event for President Joe Biden in Concord, NH. Brayden’s parents wanted their son to hear a speech from a person who was like Brayden: both President Biden and Brayden understand what it’s like to speak with a stutter. After hearing of their shared experience, President Biden spent a half hour talking with Brayden about how he learned to feel comfortable giving speeches in front of many people. In August 2020, Brayden was invited to speak at the Democratic National Convention. In his speech, Brayden shared that President Biden helped him feel confident about speaking with a stutter. Brayden’s speech went viral, receiving more than 3 million hits on Twitter, and counting.

Brayden Speaks Up shows how Brayden’s stutter is his greatest strength, making him an inspiration for all kids who feel different, and celebrates the importance of speaking up and using your voice. The book will include an author’s note from Brayden and additional resources for those who stutter.

Brayden Harrington is just a normal kid who enjoys spending time with his friends and family, and playing baseball, basketball, and video games. He lives in Boscawen, NH and enjoys following his favorite basketball team—the Boston Celtics as well as learning all he can about his favorite player of all time—Jayson Tatum. When he was thirteen years old, Brayden found himself in the national spotlight after he was introduced to then candidate for President, Joe Biden. The two bonded over their shared struggles with stuttering and Brayden was invited to speak at the 2020 Democratic National Convention. Brayden’s speech electrified the nation, going viral. During this experience, Brayden learned that his biggest challenge was actually his greatest gift, as he was able to show others the importance of persevering.