Matthew Takes His Shot
Owen Coleman
Hardcover
(Ivy House Pub Group, June 16, 2001)
Soothingly taking the hand of the diabetic child, Owen Colemans new childrens book Matthew Takes His Shot is both a tribute and an aid for children who must wrestle with the daily perils of Diabetes. As it follows young Matthew, a cuddly little polar bear, the story outlines both his discovery and ability to cope with his disease. A picnic of a good time furnished with a banquet of truth, Colemans book offers an adorable and educational character with which youngsters will be able to identify. As young Matthew comes into his own, he faces an upcoming community challenge, an ice-jumping contest, whose winner is set for impending leadership. An exciting time now tainted by his discovery of illness, Matthew is eventually able to overcome his adversity. Although first frightened by his disease and the daily shots of insulin and monitoring that will now ensue, Matthew soon learns that he can control his diabetes by taking charge of his fears and finding the courage to give himself a shot. A story culminated by his shot on the ice, Owen Coleman elucidates clever play on words, for Matthews optimism and self-confidence give him the strength to succeed in both shots. With his triumph, the young bear realizes that with self-assurance intact, the world lay at his fingertips.
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