54 pages • 1 hour read
Petey
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Book Brief
256
Novel • Fiction
Montana • 1920s
1998
Middle grade
10-14 years
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
5,378 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
5,378 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Trevor Ladd
Trevor Ladd
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.
Calvin Anders
Calvin Anders
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.
Owen Marsh
Owen Marsh
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.
256
Novel • Fiction
Montana • 1920s
1998
Middle grade
10-14 years
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