Mattie J. T. Stepanek (1990–2004)

This has to be one of the most touching books I have ever read. What comes from the heart goes to the heart, and this collection of poems written by Mattie J.T Stephen has entered my heart. The poem tells how he sees things and how he feels about the doctor visit and how much he loves his mother. He even wrote a letter to Bosnia after he heard about the war there, how magnificent. Even though he was going through tough times, he had an amazing sense of humor. He wanted people to be happy and appreciate what they have. Books can be written about this great. This will be a great source for an ELA class because of the beautiful language it is written in. also it is a great source to be taught in a social study class.… (més)

This is a such a warm-hearted, cheerful book. What's not to like about it? The poetry by the author, a child, is lovely, and the accompanying paintings colorful and sweet. The story of the author's personal life is sad. but his book only reflects happiness and hope. Dead at age 13 of a rare form of muscular dystrophy, Mattie Stepanik began writing poetry at age 3. This is the first book of his that I've read. He is quite the hero in my hometown of Rockville, Maryland, because this is where he lived last. He lost three siblings of the same disease and now his mother has been stricken by the same disease. So what does Mattie write about? Seasons, happiness, windows, snowflakes, children, peace, leaves...inspiring things.

One poem called "Circle of Happiness" made me cry, It says that if you hug and kiss and tell a child how special he is, that child will feel the same way to you. It reminded me of bonding with my own grandson. It ended like this:

I will be a little kid
Who will do all of those things
And more.
And that is what
Happiness
Is all about.… (més)