I Can Jump Puddles

I read this book a long time ago. We are talking decades. And the memory of this AUTOBIOGRAPHICAl story still make me smile and give me a the joy of life again and again. This book will renew in you -- an ability to keep hope, an ability to see best in the worst circumstances, an ability to see light in the moments of dark and despair.... It will help you to remember how to keep smiling through tears... Thank you Alan Marshall!!! When I get kids, I'll make sure this is a book on the "to read" list :)

Anyone can relate to Alan's story because it's not so much about a boy with polio as it is a story about a boy getting through childhood as we have all had to do. Annoying sisters, demanding parents, schoolyard brawls and spending as much time with your friends as possible. The Australian vernacular may be a little difficult with someone not familiar with the language but doesn't detract from the enjoyment of reading about one boys' adventures growing up in the turn-of-the-century Australian bush. It's heartwarming and inspirational but not overly syrupy or preachy. It's just the facts as he remembers them. A definite recommendation especially for young readers.

The excellent story about boy exploring the world around him and establishing courageous qualities of Man in what is truly a celebration of the human spirit when faced with hardship.

This book was translated to Czech language and published in former Czechoslovakia in 1963. I read the book then and thought it was a wonderful, heartbreaking and triumphant story. It made me realize that person can overcome huge obstacles in life with the right attitude and positive thinking. I escaped Prague in 1968 during the revolution. I have been living in the USA for thirty years now. I recently found this book among my collection of Czech books. I read it again and only wish I could find this book in English so my two young boys could also read it. The surroundings in which we live have changed so much since this book was written and since I read this book but some things just never change.

A poor horse-breaker's son in turn-of-the-centuryAustralia contracts polio. There is no prevention and nocure. His legs and back are affected forever. Just aboutanyone in this situation is likely to become resigned toa cripple's life of excruciating boredom and self-mockery.Except... This is Alan, a boy with the indomitablespirit, an extraordinary family, and superb friends. Hebeats the odds, learns to do everything a healthy boy shouldbe doing (simple - he thinks he IS a healthy boy!), andgrows up to be an accomplished professional.The story is often heart-breaking, and I do notrecommend it to the lily-livered. But those who have known pain anddesperation borne of physical handicaps will weep with joyat seeing Alan triumph. I know I did when, as a c