Starred review from June 20, 2016
Writing with humor, honesty, compassion, and grace, Hoge recounts his life story, having been born with such severe physical deformities that his mother refused to see him. “Don’t even consider bringing him home,” a doctor said, “just forget him”—advice his four older siblings voted to ignore. Corrective surgeries continued throughout Hoge’s childhood as his medical team worked to give him “a new face that was more acceptable to society.” Hoge captures the nuances of his atypical experience; for example, he acknowledges “the doctors’ wonderful ingenuity in making me a new nose” out of an amputated toe, but “Toe Nose” tops his list of hurtful nicknames (“To this day, it’s the one nickname that has any real power over me”). Hoge’s parents’ determination to provide him with as normal an upbringing as possible, combined with his own outgoing nature and desire to participate in all activities, makes his coming-of-age story unique and universal. His first independent medical decision testifies to the power of a loving family and a courageous soul. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 8–12. Author’s agent: Daniel Lazar, Writers House. Illustrator’s agency: Bright Agency.
January 30, 2017
Born with physical abnormalities that distorted his face and legs, Hoge grew up dealing with the typical issues of youth but also others’ aversion to his physical appearance. His reflection on the challenges of that coming of age are powerful; he wants his tale known, but it soon becomes clear with the narration that sadness isn’t the message he is selling. Hoge admits to the pain caused by social exclusion and ridicule but also draws upon a well of hope and love from family and friends. His story sparks hope in listeners for humankind and energizes them to love more and judge less. In a slightly nasal British voice, Hoge’s narration proves a perfect match for the emotional tone and surprising humor embedded throughout. His jovial tone helps listeners derive more from the production than readers will from the book. Ages 8–12. A Viking hardcover.
July 2, 2013
Robert Hoge was born in Brisbane in 1972 with a massive tumour on his forehead, distorted facial features and deformed legs. As a toddler he underwent operations to correct his facial deformities as doctors were concerned that without surgery, he would have no chance of normal socialisation. Robert’s early years were spent in and out of hospital and doctors’ appointments, his development constantly measured and monitored. Despite these trials, Robert’s personality—precocious, funny, and with a zest for life and learning—shines through from a young age. He meets his challenges head on and once he starts school he wants to be involved in everything. As Robert approaches adolescence he is given the option for more corrective surgery, but with potentially life-threatening consequences. He chooses not to go ahead with the surgery, demonstrating again his strength of character, and that what matters is your intelligence rather than your appearance. It is a testament to the Hoge family, who loved and supported Robert and instilled in him such a strong sense of self-belief and can-do attitude. This is an incredible life story that will no doubt attract much publicity and discussion about beauty, ugliness and how we value ourselves.
Sarina Gale is a freelance writer and bookseller at the Sun Bookshop in Yarraville