And I Climbed, And I Climbed

by Stephen Lightbown, Shih-Yu Lin (Illustrator)

Paperback

Reviews

[liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was really cool and I'm glad that it exists! I'm personally not that into poetry, but I can see how this collection would resonate with some kids. I just wish it had a clearer narrative...

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moving and thought-provoking collection of poetry that tells the story of Cosmo, an eight-year-old boy who experiences a life-changing injury after falling from a tree in his garden. The poems form a powerful narrative belonging to Cosmo, with additional voices from his family. Stephen Lightbrown, himself a wheelchair user since the age of sixteen, brings insight and authenticity to a narrative that lays bare the author's lived experience as he adapted to life following an accident which left him paralysed. In seeking to bring authentic representation of disability to children's poetry, he has distilled his own experiences and woven in poignant observations that bring Cosmo's new reality to life vividly and powerfully. Cosmo is a positive force. His story invites readers of all ages to empathise, to share his irritation at thoughtless remarks and "huffy" bus passengers, to find joy in everyday victories, and to celebrate his triumphs.