Reach For The Moon [Hardcover]

Samantha Abeel (Author), Charles R. Murphy (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 1, 2001

Samantha Abeel is learning disabled and gifted. She does not understand mathematical concepts, but she is an extremely talented writer. Samantha was on the edge of despair when a caring English teacher who recognized her hidden talents intervened, offering Samantha an opportunity to interpret in words the hauntingly beautiful paintings of artist Charles R. Murphy. The result is a visual and verbal masterpiece, a gift of inspiration for parents, teachers, and children. Samantha brings affirmation and hope to everyone who has ever struggled with a disability.

--This text refers to an alternate Hardcover edition.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Reach for the Moon is a touching and motivating collections of poems and short stories written when the author was 13 years old . . .. The wisdom and symbolism expressed in Samantha Abeel's poetry is timeless and elegant . . . The message will inspire parents, teachers, adults, and children. -- American Bookseller --This text refers to an alternate Hardcover edition.

From the Publisher

Reach for the Moon has one many awards for its young author:
* 1995 Book of Distinction in the older reader category from the International Reading Association
* New York Public Library's 1995 Best Book for the Teen Age
* Nomination as a 1995 Best Book for Young Adults by the American Library Association
* The Boston Book Review selected Reach for the Moon as one of the Ten Best Children's Books of 1994
* At 15, Samantha Abeel received the 1994 Margot Marek Award, which honors the best book written on the subject of learning disabilities. --This text refers to an alternate Hardcover edition.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 12 and up
  
• Hardcover: 48 pages
• Publisher: Orchard (February 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0439297389
• ISBN-13: 978-0439297387
• Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 9.3 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,352,154 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely Fabulous!, November 11, 1998

By A Customer

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Reach for the Moon (Hardcover)

This poetry book by a thirteen year old learning disabled child opens the doors for all of us as writers and readers. It allows both children and adults to recognize their own "personal disability", maybe something no one sees, and realize that all are conquerable! The prologue and epilogue include Samantha speaking, her parents, and her english teacher...these three points of view bring an in depth view of the "gift within us all" just waiting to be recognized and nurtured. This is a must read for anyone who touches the lives of children!

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Reach for The Moon is an amazing, inspiring read, December 19, 2003

By 

"bjkeating2002" (Norton, MA United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Reach For The Moon (Hardcover)

I have been looking for a poetry book to include in my graduate studies project for a children's literature course. I've spent many hours trying to find the right book with the right message for the right audience. This book fits right in with the theme: perseverance. I am astounded by the giftedness of this writer and the beauty of the watercolors from a remarkable illustrator. I think all my students will be able to relate in some way and find consolation in realizing that success is a matter of tapping into one's gifts. I am pleased on discovering the thoughtful and enlightening personal entries from Samantha,her mother and teacher at the end. What a wonderful story to share!!!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must read for anyone with a learning disability., December 30, 1996

By A Customer

This review is from: Reach for the Moon (Hardcover)

This book combines beautiful images with exceptional writing by a young adult. Anyone who is learning disabled or who works with children of any age should read this book.