Dancing with Katya
(Hardback)
Publishing Details
Dancing with Katya
By (Author) Dori Chaconas
Illustrated by Constance R. Bergum
Peachtree Publishers,U.S.
Peachtree Publishers
13th February 2007
United States
Classifications
Children
Fiction
Physical Properties
Hardback
32
Width 241mm, Height 279mm
567g
Description
A moving story of the transforming power of love and the bonds between siblings that even polio cannot weaken. Anna loves to dance with her beloved sister Katya in the meadow of their family's Wisconsin farm. But one summer, Katya is overcome by a high fever, and the doctor delivers a grim diagnosis- polio. Although she recovers from the lingering illness, Katya's legs are left weakened and twisted. Now, Anna carries Katya to the meadow and dances alone for her sister. Together they dream of a time when Katya will be able to join her again. When Mama and Papa announce that Katya must go to a hospital in the city where doctors will try to make her legs strong again. Anna worries- Will the treatment and Katya's "pioneer spirit" allow her to dance once again In an afterword, author Dori Chaconas and illustrator Constance R. Bergum each offer true stories of their families' personal battles with polio.
Reviews
"Lovely realistic watercolors capture the look and feel of early 20th-century Midwestern farm life, as well as the mood and spirit of the two sisters. A warm and inspiring tribute to one sister's love and the other's courage."Kirkus Reviews
"Personal notes from both the author and illustrator tell how polio affected their families. An explanation of the disease, including details of President Roosevelt's affliction, is helpful. A sincere, nostalgic effort."School Library Journal
Author Bio
Dori Chaconas developed her storytelling skills as the eldest of seven children and started writing children's books when she was the stay-at-home mother of twin girls. She has published stories in several children's magazines and sold embroidery designs to yarn companies. The author of a number of picture books, she lives in Wisconsin. Constance R. Bergum grew up in Montana and received an MFA in illustration from Marywood University. After a career as a graphic designer, she began illustrating children's books. She lives in Montana.
