59 pages 1 hour read

Peg Kehret

Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 1996

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio by Peg Kehret is a middle-grade memoir that follows 12-year-old Peg as she battles polio. The memoir details her initial symptoms, diagnosis, and the challenging treatments she undergoes in hospital and rehabilitation settings. Despite facing physical and emotional struggles, including isolation and painful therapy, Peg's resilience and determination lead to a remarkable recovery, allowing her to walk again and return to school. The book also explores themes like the emotional impact of illness and the value of supportive connections.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Small Steps by Peg Kehret is a compelling memoir detailing the author's battle with polio. Readers appreciate the inspiring narrative and Kehret's resilience, though some criticize the inconsistent pacing. Overall, it's a heartfelt and educational read that resonates with many for its honest portrayal of overcoming adversity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Small Steps?

Readers who would enjoy Small Steps by Peg Kehret are typically pre-teens and teens interested in inspirational, true-life stories of overcoming adversity. Comparable to Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper, this book appeals to those who appreciate resilience and personal triumph in the face of challenges.

Recommended

Reading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

830L

Book Details

Genre

Auto/Biographical Fiction

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Children's Literature

Topics

Health / Medicine

Education

History: World

Themes

Identity: Disability

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Self Discovery