Petey

By: Ben Mikaelsen

Narrated by: L. J. Ganser

When Petey Corbin is born in 1920, no one knows about cerebral palsy. After struggling to care for her frail infant who is often racked by seizures, Petey's mother reluctantly places him in an asylum. There, he is labeled an idiot and ignored. Few people look beyond his twisted body to see the intelligence in his eyes.

Then another young resident, Calvin Anders, arrives in Petey's ward. As he learns to understand Petey's garbled sounds, Calvin becomes his spokesman and best friend. Years later, however, they are separated when Petey is moved to a nursing home. Alone and withdrawn, Petey wonders if he will ever find another person who understands him.

Ben Mikaelsen, award-winning author of Rescue Josh McGuire, Stranded, and other popular books for young adults, has crafted a poignant tale of friendship and triumph over disabilities. Petey was chosen by the New York Public Library as one of its 100 Books for Reading and Sharing, and it won the Western Writers of America Award.

©1998 Ben Mikaelsen (P)2000 Recorded Books, LLC

Inspiring!!!

Be prepared to laugh and cry. Thank you Ben Mikaelson for sharing Petey's life story!!!

Adolescents always come through

It is so hard to believe that as a society we used to place people with physical disabilities in insane asylums. This story was such a powerful example of how just listening and being there for another person changes us. It also shows how it often takes a special young person to truly understand those who are different and not treat them differently. Such a powerful story.

Very touching story

I thought the narration was excellent. It made you feel as if you knew Petey. This was a very touching story. I learned to appreciate what you have and that ever life is valuable.

Compelling

Such an amazing story. Read it for a class, but truly loved it. A great read for all.

Love it!

So heartfelt! I read it too my children and led to great, meaningful conversations.