Dancing with Katya

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.

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.

"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