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54 pages 1 hour read

Petey

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1998

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Book Brief

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Ben Mikaelsen

Petey

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Montana • 1920s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

Petey by Ben Mikaelsen follows the life of Petey, a man with cerebral palsy who is misdiagnosed as intellectually disabled and confined to a state hospital in the 1920s. Over several decades, Petey endures institutional life, finds friendship, and experiences love and loss. In 1990, he befriends an eighth grader named Trevor, who becomes his advocate and enriches his later years. The narrative addresses historical mistreatment and misdiagnosis of individuals with disabilities.

Heartwarming

Emotional

Inspirational

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.6

5,378 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Mixed reviews for Ben Mikaelsen's Petey praise its emotional depth and compelling portrayal of disability, making it a moving read for many. Some critiques highlight predictable plot elements and occasional clichéd writing. Overall, the book effectively delivers a heartfelt story, though it may not satisfy readers seeking complex narratives.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Petey?

A reader who enjoys stories of friendship, overcoming adversity, and emotional growth would appreciate Petey by Ben Mikaelsen. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper, which also explore the lives of individuals with disabilities, will find Petey equally moving and inspiring.

4.6

5,378 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Petey Corbin

The main character with cerebral palsy who spends his life in institutions and whose journey emphasizes resilience and kindness despite difficult circumstances. He communicates with limited speech and develops meaningful friendships despite his physical challenges.

An eighth-grader who moves to Bozeman and forms a deep friendship with Petey, becoming an advocate and champion for his new friend. His experiences with Petey lead him to personal growth and increased empathy.

A patient at Warm Springs who becomes Petey's close friend and advocate, helping him communicate and participate in ward life. He is lively, talkative, and tries to maintain independence despite his disabilities.

A retired cattle rancher who works at Warm Springs, where he supports Petey and Calvin with compassion and understanding. He challenges the negative attitudes of other staff and enhances the lives of the patients he cares for.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Montana • 1920s

Publication Year

1998

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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