Maddie Coates

Dear Mr. Mikaelson,

What would you do if you were out on a walk and saw a little kid getting beat up? How would you feel? I will never forget the nervous look on his face. After reading your book, Petey, I wonder why it was so hard to stand up for the kid getting beat up. I think that reading your book made me want to be more like Trevor. I think back on what I should have done but it makes me disappointed in myself more then anything, because I didn't stand up for that little kid.

Reading your book, Petey, made me think about how much more alike than different we are from people who are physically or mentally disabled. Some might have different colored skin or have a different religion, but everyone is the same. We have to realize we can't judge people by what they look like or what they believe in.

Petey always thought he never belonged. I think everyone has felt that way including myself. Trevor helped Petey every time he felt he didn't belong or when he needed someone there with him. I know I should be more like Trevor more often.

Everyday I think about what Petey has gone through and how he handled everything. He accepted and tried his best to make the best out of the hard things life threw at him. I have become better at learning to enjoy what life gives me and I will try to help others enjoy life too!

Sincerely,
Maddie Coates