About:
Petey by Ben Mikaelsen tells the story of a boy named Petey, who was born with cerebral palsy. The book spans his life, detailing his challenges in a mental institution and later in a nursing home, where he is initially misjudged as having significant cognitive impairment based solely on his physical condition. However, the narrative reveals Petey's intelligence and spirit, as he forms meaningful connections with those around him, including a boy named Trevor, whose life is also transformed through their friendship.
The writing style is heartfelt and accessible, making it suitable for younger readers. Mikaelsen masterfully interweaves Petey's experiences with broader themes of compassion, acceptance, and the importance of looking beyond physical appearances. This poignant story not only explores the struggles faced by individuals with disabilities but also highlights the profound impacts of friendship and understanding. With its emotional depth, Petey is described as a must-read that fosters empathy and inspires readers to appreciate the value of every life.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Triggers may include discussions of institutionalization, disability, and bullying, which could be emotionally challenging for some readers.
From The Publisher:
In 1922, at the age of two, Petey's distraught parents commit him to the state's insane asylum, unaware that their son is actually suffering from severe cerebral palsy. Bound by his wheelchair and struggling to communicate with the people around him, Petey finds a way to remain kind and generous despite the horrific conditions in his new "home." Through the decades, he befriends several caretakers but is heartbroken when each eventually leaves him. Determined not to be hurt again, he vows to no longer let hope of lifelong friends and family torment him.
That changes after he is moved into a nursing home and meets a young teen named Trevor Ladd; he sees something in the boy and decides to risk friendship one last time. Trevor, new to town and a bit of a loner, is at first weary of the old man in the wheelchair. But after hearing more of his story, Trevor learns that there is much more to Petey than meets the eye.
Petey is a touching story of friendship, discovery, and the uplifting power of the human spirit.
What can you read after
Petey?
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