A Face First by Priscilla Cummings
At first, Kelley did not remember what happened at the intersection. There was no recollection of a speeding truck, no shatter of breaking glass or echoes from the explosion. Most mercifully, there was no memory of a fire so hot, and so close, that it melted the shape of her small frog earring. Enduring skin-graft operations, uncomfortable dressings, and grueling hand exercises, twelve-year-old Kelley is afraid she'll never be part of the "normal" world again. But worst of all is having to wear a plastic face mask for at least a year. Who will understand? Better no school, better a complete retreat, she thinks. With the help of a caring community and stirred by the example of other burn victims, Kelley discovers many things about herself, including a talent she never knew she had. Most important, she learns that although a face is the first thing one sees, a second impression can make all the difference. (from inside cover)
Ages: 13+
This is written for the age group eight to twelve (in my opinion) but the explanations and descriptions are so intense, I'd recommend 13+. The skin-grafting itself turns your stomach inside out. Still, this is a very encouraging story for burn victims and other accident victims. Kelley experiences every possible emotion concerning her injuries - anger, fear, humiliation. Through it all, though, she learns to pull through.
Things to consider:
As I said above, the descriptions are, well, graphic. Kelley often 'punishes' those around her (including her sister and best friend) by telling them all about the accident and her recovery. The skin grafting and debridement are enough to make you sick. Still, this allows you to join with Kelley in her pain and agony as she starts the journey to recovery. Without knowing what she's going through, you'd never care about her.
Of course, there is extensive reference to first, second, and third degree burns.
God's name is used mulitple times, both in prayer and taking it in vain.
There is brief reference to drugs, drinking, and hypnosis.
Kelley's parents divorced and although it's never really discussed, you know her father doesn't see Kelley or Kelley's sister very often.
Because of the burns and strange methods of healing, Kelley often refers to herself as a 'freak'.
Kelley is often mean to her mother, sister, friends, nurses, and the doctor taking care of her. Although they are all understanding of Kelley's anger, Kelley rarely apologizes.
Sadly, I've put this book in the worst possible light. It's actually a really encouraging story. It shows how even when we are severely hurt and injured, we can make a come-back and be better than we ever were. If there were no hardship for us, there would be no love and empathy for others. I recommend this book for many!
Happy reading!
~Thalia
Ages: 13+
This is written for the age group eight to twelve (in my opinion) but the explanations and descriptions are so intense, I'd recommend 13+. The skin-grafting itself turns your stomach inside out. Still, this is a very encouraging story for burn victims and other accident victims. Kelley experiences every possible emotion concerning her injuries - anger, fear, humiliation. Through it all, though, she learns to pull through.
Things to consider:
As I said above, the descriptions are, well, graphic. Kelley often 'punishes' those around her (including her sister and best friend) by telling them all about the accident and her recovery. The skin grafting and debridement are enough to make you sick. Still, this allows you to join with Kelley in her pain and agony as she starts the journey to recovery. Without knowing what she's going through, you'd never care about her.
Of course, there is extensive reference to first, second, and third degree burns.
God's name is used mulitple times, both in prayer and taking it in vain.
There is brief reference to drugs, drinking, and hypnosis.
Kelley's parents divorced and although it's never really discussed, you know her father doesn't see Kelley or Kelley's sister very often.
Because of the burns and strange methods of healing, Kelley often refers to herself as a 'freak'.
Kelley is often mean to her mother, sister, friends, nurses, and the doctor taking care of her. Although they are all understanding of Kelley's anger, Kelley rarely apologizes.
Sadly, I've put this book in the worst possible light. It's actually a really encouraging story. It shows how even when we are severely hurt and injured, we can make a come-back and be better than we ever were. If there were no hardship for us, there would be no love and empathy for others. I recommend this book for many!
Happy reading!
~Thalia
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