In his latest book, Mattie Stepanek writes poems about love for his family, friends, country and faith.  Mattie has a rare form of muscular dystrophy that claimed the life of his three siblings.  If you ever get a chance to listen to Mattie on television, be sure to watch.  He is such a joy.

Some of my favorite poems in this book are "Learning Nothing" where Mattie explains, "even when you believe you are learning nothing, you are actually still learning something."  In "On Being Rich" Mattie emphasizes that it is really "lots of love, honesty, respect and friends that make one rich - not lots of money."  Another poem is titled "Peace Prescription" where he talks about hurting each other with our words and actions.  His words are so eloquently spoken.

When you read Mattie's poems, it is hard to believe that these thought provoking words are coming from such a young man.  Mattie has been granted a great gift for writing poetry and we hope that he will continue to write more poems in the future.  Mattie is an inspiration to me and to many others.  You will enjoy this book of poems and this collection is something that you will want to read over and over again!  Be sure to add this book to your list of books to buy.  This book will make a wonderful gift for someone you care about.  ON A PERSONAL NOTE: Mattie passed away on June 22, 2004. I feel like my heart is broken with his loss. Through Mattie's poetry, he will live forever in our hearts.

NANCY EATON

DO NOT REPRINT WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE AUTHOR, NANCY EATON