‘Children of the Resolution’ is a story told by Carl Grantham, a young man with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, to a student researching her dissertation.
In fact, this novel is a story of school days told by a confident narrator who just happens to be disabled. Sure, his disability defined some of the schools he visited but his personality continuously shone through, engaging teachers and students alike. The description of the teachers who shaped Carl’s experiences – good and bad – is so realistic and the recounting of a special friendship is absolutely heart breaking.
Set in the 1970s, this fictional account of Carl being thrown into integrated education. Although there are plenty of good ideas and theories behind it, Carl realises the reality is, at times, very difficult.
Gary Murning has written an eloquent, moving coming-of-age story, expertly weaving in a deeper narrative about disability and modern pedagogical theories. It is easy to concoct ideas and put them into place but, so often, many of the people making these decisions have no grasp on the realities of the situation. Gary Murning’s book is a must-read for politicians, policy-makers and educators alike.
However, I am not saying this book is only for people involved in making educational decisions: this novel is full of heart, with some wonderful characters.
Carl’s story reflects many people’s’ experiences of school. There are friendships, relationships, courtships and disappointments. Murning tells Carl’s story with emotional intelligence and courage.
A wonderfully honest read.
Vic x
Get your copy of Gary Murning’s ‘Children of the Resolution’ (hardback) here: http://amzn.to/nOp6nG
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