#50 One-Handed Catch

Somehow I forgot to post a review of this excellent Maud Hart Lovelace Award Nominee! I'm sorry you had to wait so long, and I'm sure many of you have already read this great book.

This is the story of 11-year-old Norm, who often works in his father's butcher shop. It is quite shocking when the unthinkable happens: Norm gets his hand caught in the meat grinder and has to have it amputated. How will he ever tie his shoes, or play ball, or be normal again? I can't imagine how awful it had to be, but even though it's a terrible tragedy, the author manages to keep this book light and humorous.

The story takes place in 1946, so you learn some history while you're reading it. Norm's mom does everything she can to help keep life normal for him, and even his pesky little sister comes through in the end! Whether or not you're a baseball fan, you will find this book heartwarming. I think it teaches you that no matter what difficulties life brings your way, you can always struggle through them.