Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio

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Small Steps The Year I Got Polio

Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio is a memoir by Peg Kehret, detailing her experience with polio during her childhood. Published in 1996, the book is aimed at a middle-grade audience but has received acclaim from readers of all ages for its honest and inspiring portrayal of overcoming adversity.

Summary[edit | edit source]

Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio recounts the true story of Peg Kehret's battle with polio at the age of twelve. The memoir begins with Kehret feeling the first symptoms of the disease, which quickly escalate, leading to her diagnosis. The narrative then follows her through her hospitalization, treatment, and rehabilitation. Kehret describes the physical and emotional challenges she faced, including the fear and isolation of being in a hospital far from home, the painful treatments, and the slow process of regaining her strength and ability to walk. Throughout her journey, Kehret meets other polio patients who become her friends and sources of support.

Themes[edit | edit source]

The book explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the power of positive thinking. Kehret's determination to recover, despite the odds, serves as a powerful message about the human spirit's ability to overcome obstacles. The memoir also provides insight into the history of polio, a disease that affected thousands of children until the development of a vaccine in the 1950s.

Reception[edit | edit source]

Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio has been praised for its candid and engaging narrative style, as well as its educational value. It has been used in schools to teach about polio, the history of its vaccine, and the importance of perseverance. The book has also been recognized for its ability to connect with a young audience by presenting a relatable and compelling story of a child's experience with a serious illness.

Impact[edit | edit source]

Beyond its literary accolades, Small Steps: The Year I Got Polio has played a significant role in raising awareness about polio and the importance of vaccination. Kehret's personal account provides a human face to the disease, helping readers understand the impact of polio on individuals and families. The book continues to be a valuable resource for education on public health and the history of polio.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD