Milton's Dilemma [Hardcover]

Patricia Gatto (Author), John DeAngelis (Author), Kenneth Vincent (Illustrator)

Book Description

Milton's Dilemma is the tale of a lonely boy's magical journey to friendship and self-acceptance. Milton struggles to fit in, but is teased by the school bullies. With the help of a mischievous gnome, he learns the difference between right and wrong and the consequences of his actions when he vows to take revenge.

Editorial Reviews

Review

". . . cleverly demonstrates to the child reader they are uniquely special and MUST let their own personal beauty shine through." -- Judge Marjorie O. Rendell, First Lady of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

"One of the most important topics for a book I've ever reviewed. . . insightful, entertaining, . . .recommended" -- Christina Francine Whitcher, Midwest Book Review

"The authors have not only weaved an exciting and entertaining story, but have created a vehicle for educators and parents." -- Robert S. Conquest, MSW, Certified Therapeutic School Social Worker

About the Author

Patricia Gatto and John De Angelis are advocates for literacy and children's rights. The authors speak at schools and community events to foster awareness and provide children with a safe and healthy learning environment.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Providence Publishing (June 2004)
• ISBN-10: 0965166198
• ISBN-13: 978-0965166195
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,987,683 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Recommended for any child having to deal with bullies, December 5, 2004

By 

Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Milton's Dilemma (Hardcover)

Milton's Dilemma by the husband and wife writing team of John De Angelis and Patricia Gatto deals directly with the consequences of bullying in a sensitive, practical, entertaining manner as young readers ages 6 to 10 follow the journey of Milton from loneliness and anxiety to friendship and self-acceptance. Kenneth Vincent's rather impressive artwork is a perfect enhancement of a reader engaging story. Milton's Dilemma is a respected and commended addition to school and community library collections for children, nd especially recommended reading for any child having to deal with the issues of bullies and bullying.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Teaches Your Child to Handle Adversity the Right Way, October 6, 2004

By 

Katherine Turcotte "xpertreviews" (New Jersey) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Milton's Dilemma (Hardcover)

Milton's Dilemma is a book that focuses on the bullying of young Milton Hastings, a boy of ten, being raised by his mother, after the death of his father in the war.

Moving is nothing out of the ordinary for Milton, military families move often. But when they finally settle down in the town of Smithville, life changes drastically. Milton's mother gets a job and he is the new-kid-on-the-block.

The other boys in his school are mostly from wealthy families, but Milton is different. A little over-weight and slightly clumsy makes him an easy target to torment. And torment they do. When Milton is offered the chance to get even by a magical rhyming gnome named Duffy McDoogle, things are about to get interesting. With the ball in his court, this is his big chance to get even with the boys who make everyday miserable for him.

A humorous, yet touching tale of a little boy forced to stand alone and make the right decisions. Well adapted to many family situations today of a one-parent household, this delicate but very real subject of how a child learns to deal with adversity is handled in a manner that is presented in a fun way and still succeeds in getting it's point across.
Milton's Dilemma should be a part of every elementary school's curriculum.

Katherine J. Turcotte, Reviewer

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful story for children dealing with bullies, September 19, 2004

By 

avid reader (Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Milton's Dilemma (Hardcover)

A ten-year-old boy named Milton Hastings, Jr. moves to Smithville, a common occurrence for his military family. This move is without his father, who died a war-hero, and Milton struggles with the changes around him. Without friends, clumsy Milton becomes an easy target for the rich kid bullies at the school he attends.

The magic of a mischievous gnome named Duffy McDoogle guides Milton through a magical journey of right and wrong. A journey that allows Milton to choose his own path, to learn the consequences of revenge, how to make the right decisions, and what friendship really means.

MILTON'S DILEMMA is an enchanting story, wonderfully written by Patricia Gatto and John De Angelis. The beautiful illustrations of Kenneth Vincent are filled with rich color and detail. A lovely book for parents and teachers to share with their children, taking them on a journey of their own while teaching them how to listen to their heart. This is one any child is sure to enjoy!