A Special Kind of Hero: Chris Burke's Own Story [Paperback]

Jo Beth McDaniel (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 15, 2001

Chris Burke became one of Americas favorite personalities when he starred as "Corky" on the hit ABC television series "Life Goes On." Not since Helen Keller has one person so thoroughly changed the way the world views people with disabilities. Twenty-five years earlier, when Chris was born with Down syndrome, doctors advised his parents to put him in an institution. Instead, they showered him with love, and encouraged him to reach for his dreams. This is Chriss story, and the story of his familys love and determination. Here he tells what its really like to grow up with Down syndromehow he pursued his seemingly impossible show business goals...and how he has dedicated his life to helping people with special needs, especially those with what he calls "Up Syndrome." Profoundly inspirational, "A Special Kind of Hero" is a triumphant story of courage and hope that proves Chris motto: "Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off your goal.""A poignant, joyful and inspirational story." Literary Guild "Excellentfascinatinga realistic portrait of an intriguing individual."Down Syndrome News

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

YA-- The heartwarming story of a youngster who, despite a congenital deficiency, has been able to realize his full potential and attain amazing success because of a nurturing home environment. Burke, who was born with Down syndrome and is severely handicapped, has gained national recognition as Corky on the television series, ``Life Goes On.'' Three short chapters are in his own words and the rest of the third-person narrative recounts his parents refusal to institutionalize him and his family's unfaltering effort to shower love, support, and approval on the happy-go-lucky boy. It is an intensely personal biography that can be read for pleasure and inspiration.
- Peggy H. Mooney, Fairfax County Public Library, VA
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Library Journal

Burke, star of the TV series Life Goes On , has Down's Syndrome. From an early age, he wanted to be an actor, and despite myriad obstacles and skeptics, he singlemindedly pursued his "impossible dream." Burke does not think of himself as handicapped. To him, having Down's Syndrome is merely a characteristic, just as "some people have brown hair." He is luckier than most people with Down's Syndrome, however: he has a loving and supportive (if somewhat overprotective) family with the financial means to provide opportunities for their youngest son. He also has a talent for making friends. Like most, his life has by no means been completely free of difficulty. With this book, he offers readers an inspiring glimpse of one who has surmounted seemingly impossible obstacles. Recommended for general collections.
- Susan Brombacher, "Medical Aspects of Human Sexuality"
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 284 pages
• Publisher: iUniverse (August 15, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0595192653
• ISBN-13: 978-0595192656
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.2 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #472,239 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars inspiring read for everyone, May 9, 2005

By 

puff (usa) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Special Kind of Hero: Chris Burke's Own Story (Paperback)

Chris Burke is one of my favorite actors. I started watching Life Goes On back in 1989 through 1993. It is still my favorite all time show. I taped about half the episodes. ( I just wish i could find out where you can buy them...I'd love to have the whole show on tape) I had no idea how many obstacles, due to his condition of Down Syndrome, Chris had to overcome before becoming an actor. His faith in God and himself is so inspiring. Even his family tried to discourage him from thinking he was going to be a Hollywood star someday, but he obviously had a vision and stopped at nothing to achieve his dreams. I love that his disabilty is not his identity. He rises far above any trial. I also found out many interesing facts from his Life Goes On costars. He and Kellie Martin's friendship was so strong, they were like siblings. He sometimes had to deal with actors who thought they were above him and were very impatient and patronizing with Chris. Chris really is a "normal" person with normal desires- to fall in love, be treated with respect, make his own living, and take care of his loved ones. Whether or not you have seen his show or movies, I recommend you read this book, especially if you are disabled or know someone who is. You don't have to be afraid of someone who looks and sounds a bit different than you. Chris really changed my heart and mind. He has more wisdom than anyone I know.

P.S.( afew months later) Hey Life Goes on fans, I just found out the first season of the show will be released in the summer of 2006! I can't wait to buy it. I hope they will release all four seasons.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An Inspiration!, August 17, 2005

By 

Herherb "Herbert Reiner" (Staten Island, NY) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Special Kind of Hero: Chris Burke's Own Story (Paperback)

This book was recommended to me because I am the parent of a special child. I have since recommended the book to all of my friends, whether they have special children (or any children) or not.

Chris Burke's story is remarkable. He beat all the odds and achieved more than most of us could ever dream. This is clearly because of his wonderfully supportive family, who never told him he couldn't succeed.

Moreover, Chris has a great sense of humor, making the book a joy to read.

Well done Chris!

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A Great Read, January 26, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: A Special Kind of Hero: Chris Burke's Own Story (Paperback)

When I first began watching "Life Goes On", years ago, I was immedietly drawn in. The sheer talent and ability of Chris Burke blew me away, and this book really gives insight into his childhood and life. It really is a fantastic story that I suggest to anyone looking to read about someone with the courage and strength of the biggest tiger in the jungle, who overcomes stereotypes and boundaries. I wish there had been a little bit more about the behind the scenes of "Life Goes On" and about his musical career, but all in all, it's well worth the money.