In 2004 in a nationwide survey Canadians voted that Tommy Douglas was the greatest Canadian of all time. It was thanks to his efforts that Canada instituted a universal health care system.
British Columbia author Beryl Young has written a new picture book that introduces kids to Tommy Douglas. I received my copy a few weeks ago and it quickly became a favourite of my granddaughter’s. I couldn’t read it to her enough times. Consequently, I know Tommy’s story by heart now.
His motivation to achieve health care for all Canadians stemmed from his own experience with the medical system. As a young boy, he injured his knee and his parents were told the leg would have to be amputated.
A well-known orthopaedic surgeon suggested an alternate surgery that might save Tommy’s leg but Tommy’s parents said they couldn’t afford his fees. The doctor agreed to do the surgery for free if his medical students could watch the procedure. Tommy’s leg was saved.
Tommy’s experience made him realize that health care should be available to everyone, not just those who could afford it.
When Tommy grew up and became a politician universal health care for citizens was his personal crusade first provincially and then federally.
In her lively picture book, Beryl Young tells Tommy’s story in a way that is accessible to children and readily engages them. The author helps young readers understand what a hero Tommy Douglas really was. The illustrations by Joan Steacy are bright and colourful and really bring the story alive. The book has received a highly recommended review from The Canadian Review of Materials.
I ordered my book through McNally Robinson Booksellers
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