BETTER ANGELS

Keller is a young cancer survivor and a political activist.

Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at 7, at 12 she co-authored this book with Congressman Michael McCaul of Texas, her home state. Keller tells her story in great medical detail, but more importantly, she describes her crusade to improve the outcomes for all children with cancer. After she first returned home from the hospital, she independently filmed a video about her experience on an iPad and got her mother’s help posting it on YouTube. Keller has also taken on major speaking and lobbying responsibilities. Keller and McCaul worked together to get the STAR Act, an initiative to promote cancer research, passed. Keller’s family presents white and is economically well off with good health insurance. Keller’s personal story reflects her experience and very special circumstances; the economic reality that affects other children with serious diseases does not figure here. Her relationship with her brother, her dog, and her great joy in baking are described; school and friends are mentioned, but readers may wish for a fuller portrait of Sadie’s everyday life. While the book is message-driven, it is written in an accessible and engaging style.

Will resonate with young people who have experienced illness or wish to fight for others.