あらすじ
My Son, My Hero is the true account of 7 year old Michael James' brave battle with childhood cancer. It follows the story through his father Kevin's eyes. Included are all of the highs and lows that are commonplace when battling cancer. All facts are included, from the time of Michael's birth, to his first diagnosis at age 4, through his 2 year remission, then relapse and the road to bone marrow transplant. This book provides insight firsthand from the father who was with Michael constantly, is 100% true and is not embellished with any literary drama. Also revealed are the positive actions of many people, and the mistakes and oversights of others. The book tries to bring the reader into the hospital rooms, where the reality of the unthinkable slowly becomes more and more real. It is an emotional rollercoaster ride for the reader, and was a truly painful experience to create for the author and his wife. Michael was their only child born after 10 years of trying to conceive. He was valued and loved tremendously from the moment he arrived. Michael was a thoughtful and kind young man who touched and inspired everyone who knew him. This book was never intended for the public. Kevin had 100 copies made to send to family, friends and supporters. Within weeks, Kevin was being urged by many to make the book available to all, as it was seen by many to be helpful to others. After months of thought, the parents were finally persuaded to publish. Some of the Proceeds from this book will be donated to childhood cancer support organizations, as they were so kind and helpful to Michael and his family during their darkest times. This is a very personal book that we hope will help the reader to see the things in life that are the most important. Sincerely, Kevin Smith For more information, please visit www.mysonmyhero.org.
作品考察・見どころ
本書は単なる闘病記ではなく、十年の歳月を経て授かった最愛の息子への、血の通った祈りの記録です。著者は文学的装飾を排し、父親の視点から「ありのままの真実」を綴ることに徹しました。その剥き出しの言葉が持つ力は、技巧的なフィクションを凌駕し、読者の魂を揺さぶります。絶望の淵で少年マイケルが放った生命の輝きが、ページから鮮烈に溢れ出します。 物語の本質は、過酷な現実で見出される「生の尊厳」にあります。献身的な支援と現場の失策を共に記す誠実さは、愛の重みを我々に問いかけます。かつて私信として綴られた言葉が多くの希望となったのは、そこに飾りのない真実が宿っているからでしょう。魂を削って生まれたこの一冊は、読む者の人生観を根底から変えるほどの熱量に満ちています。
