Why Did It Happen?

De: Steven Salmon

Narrado por: Virtual Voice

“WHY DID IT HAPPEN? is a coming-of-age novel that captures the complex life of Caleb, a young man learning to navigate a world that is different from others his age while at the same time growing up and feeling the same changes, pressures, and challenges young men experience. Salmon captures the emotional toil that living with a brother with a severe disability brings. As you read it, you recognize yourself and ask the question 'What would I do if I lived in this house?" This is a thought-provoking journey that leaves the reader appreciating the love between siblings, the strength of a family, and the resilience of people affected by the challenges others face.
“Thank you for sharing this with me. Every time I read your work I become a better person.”
~ Dave Strong, High School Advisor, Computer Science

“Steve Salmon does something new and necessary in his new novel for middle grades, WHY DID IT HAPPEN? He goes beyond an account of what someone with cerebral palsy must face and shows the strain that one young man's disability places on an entire family. This is a vividly written narrative that is emotional depicting life as physically challenging.”
~ Larry Watson, Author of White Crosses, Justice, In A Dark Time, and Montana 1948

“It was an interesting story of mental health, family dynamics, and loss. I think it should be published. It was complex and shed light on mental health, disability, and family dynamics.”
~ Kerry Ludke, Clinical Research Manager, Department of Neurology, UW School of Medicine and Public Health

“Steven Salmon's remarkable journey in life and letters continues with WHY DID IT HAPPEN? The new novel focuses on a family dealing with disability and psychological issues. They face formidable obstacles. I submit that this novel's existence is shining proof that they can be overcome.”
~ Doug Moe, Journalist and Award-Winning Author of MOMENTS OF HAPPINESS: A Wisconsin Band Story (with Mike Leckrone)

“It's difficult to separate Steven Salmon the author from Steven Salmon the person. Born with severe cerebral palsy, Salmon struggles to speak or move. His hands are tightened and the movement in his arms severely limited, both of which make typing impossible. He writes in Morse code, swaying his head from side to side. Salmon says it’s important for him to leave a legacy by showing that people with disabilities can do anything, given the opportunity to succeed. Also, he writes freely about the barriers that have impacted him in the effort to serve as a voice for others.
“In his this novel, WHY DID IT HAPPEN? Salmon tackles tough subject matter, centered around 12-year-old Caleb and his 13-year-old brother, Troy, who has cerebral palsy. In simple, clear language, Salmon depicts the usual sibling antics, but his story goes far beyond brotherly fights and resentment. The boys, along with their understandably exhausted and stressed-out mom, grapple with their father’s horrifying mental health challenges, domestic violence, and multiple suicide attempts.
“Salmon rounds out his story with engaging scenes of Troy navigating daily life from his wheelchair. I appreciate these no-nonsense moments because they will nudge readers to consider what it’s like to live with physical disabilities.
“Overall, the takeaway from WHY DID IT HAPPEN? is that Salmon writes with courage and heart, and his readers will appreciate knowing they are not alone in the challenges they face at home and at school.
~ Laura Anne Bird, Author of Marvelous Jackson and Crossing the Pressure Line