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59 pages 1 hour read

Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio

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

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Book Brief

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Peg Kehret

Small Steps

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

179

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Oregon • 1940s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

830L

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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.

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Challenging

Hopeful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.6

8,739 ratings

90%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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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.

4.6

8,739 ratings

90%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Peg Kehret

A determined and resilient young girl who contracts polio at age 12 and must navigate the challenges of recovery. Her journey is marked by growth, both physically and emotionally, as she aims to achieve her dreams.

A 14-year-old girl who becomes one of Peg's closest friends during their rehabilitation at the Sheltering Arms. Despite living with limited mobility, she remains cheerful and supportive.

A 12-year-old girl, like Peg, who spends time in an iron lung before coming to the Sheltering Arms. Her friendship with Peg continues beyond their time at the rehab center, exemplifying the importance of connection.

A resident of the Sheltering Arms for many years, having been abandoned due to her polio diagnosis. Known for her singing voice, she gains confidence through connections and friendships formed there.

A 14-year-old with severe health issues resulting from polio, including limited mobility and breathing difficulty. Her time in the hospital highlights the severe impact of the illness.

Peg's mother, who plays a crucial role in ensuring her daughter receives timely and effective treatment for polio. Her compassion and love are ever-present through her support.

Peg's father, known for his humor and dedication to supporting his daughter through her recovery journey. His encouragement is instrumental in helping Peg regain strength through music.

Peg's older brother who provides sentimental support through teddy bears during Peg's hospitalization. These gifts symbolize family love and encouragement from afar.

A young and kind intern at University Hospital who becomes Peg's favorite doctor. His supportive presence and reminders of a promise keep Peg motivated during her treatment.

An eight-year-old boy in an iron lung with whom Peg forms a quick connection during their shared time at University Hospital. Their friendship is built on shared experiences and hope.

A gentle and encouraging physical therapist at the Sheltering Arms who helps Peg through her physical recovery. Her positive approach makes therapy sessions rewarding rather than daunting.

An Australian nurse whose innovative treatment methods are crucial to Peg's recovery process. Her techniques are widely adopted and help numerous polio patients like Peg.

Book Details
Pages

179

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Oregon • 1940s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

830L

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