Paul is a
high school senior with a perfect life or is it.  He has looks, he’s athletic
and a straight "A" student.  But there is one thing in Paul’s life
that isn’t perfect and that is Paul’s brother Shawn.  Paul’s brother is
retarded. No, more than retarded. He sits in his wheelchair all day and drools
and makes "ahhhhhhh" sounds.  Paul loves him, but hates him at the
same time. 

Paul’s
father left the family because of his brother’s condition.  In Paul’s mind his
father walked out and Paul can’t forgive him for that.  As the story
progresses, Paul realizes that even though Shawn may not understand him, or
understand love, he will try to love him more as a brother.

Paul
believes he has to give up everything to be his brothers’ protector in life. 
Later on in the story Paul learns through some difficult times that he has his
own life to live.  As Paul comes to grip with his anger and abusive behavior
toward other people he finds out the real reason why his father left.  He sees
what can happen when we let our anger take over our brain.  He finds
forgiveness towards himself and others.  Paul matures as a character in this
story.

Paul is a
young boy who is fueled by his rage at what has happened to his family, such
that he is ready to explode.  He is haunted by his feelings that he can’t share
with anyone but he will eventually have to face head on.

The book
is not an easy reader but leaves the one with hope for the main character.  It’s
an emotional, courageous story.

© 2006 Patricia
Ball

Patricia Ball, B.A., applies the
following descriptions to herself:

• Research Chemist for 23 years
• BA degree in Biology, Elms College
• Recent graduate of Institute of Children’s Literature
• Wife and Mother of two
• Published Poet/Writer
• Enjoy composing music, art, writing,
  reading
• Interested in Metaphysics, Psychology
  and Science
• Enjoy traveling:  USA, Canada and Europe

Categories: Children