Life Happens Next

Written by Terry Trueman

Narrated by Johnny Heller

Stuck in Neutral, a Printz Honor Book, introduced the world to Shawn McDaniel, a fourteen-year-old kid with cerebral palsy. But what happens next?

Shawn's got a new perspective on life. But no one has a clue. That's because they can see only his wheelchair, his limp body, his drool. What they don't see? His brain, with perfect auditory memory. And his heart, which is in love with a girl. And his fierce belief that someday someone will realize there's way more to him than his appearance.

How do you connect with others when you can't talk, walk, or even wave hello? In the sequel to Stuck in Neutral, which ALA Booklist called ""an intense reading experience,"" Shawn McDaniel discovers a new definition of ""normal"" and finds that life happens next for everyone.

• Language: English
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Release date: Aug 21, 2012
• ISBN: 9780062221810

Terry Trueman

Terry Trueman grew up in the northern suburbs of Seattle, Washington. He attended the University of Washington, where he received his BA in creative writing. He also has an MS in applied psychology and an MFA in creative writing, both from Eastern Washington University. Terry is also the author of Stuck in Neutral and its companion novel, Cruise Control; Hurricane; 7 Days at the Hot Corner; No Right Turn; and Inside Out.

Reviews for Life Happens Next

[pmlyayakkers · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

In this sequel to Stuck in Neutral, Shawn is still in his wheelchair, living in his internal world as things happen around him. His mother takes in Debi, a cousin with Downs Syndrome and her dog who both seem more aware of Shawn that other people.

[sparkleponies · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Based on a true story, 15 year old Shawn attempts to convey the challenges of a teen with cerebral palsy. This book is a sequel to the award-winning 'Stuck in Neutral". Shawn wants us to know he is very intelligent, despite his inability to communicate. Along the way he is fortunate enough to meet a person with Down Syndrome who, oddly enough, completely understands him. Her beloved dog is also sensitive to his seizures; becoming very protective of him. As the story unfolds, Shawn is very cynical and negative. His attitude greatly improves with a little help from his friends. Thanks to the author (the father of a teen facing the same struggles) for giving us a 'glimpse' of what this might be like!

[lilibrarian · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

In this sequel to Stuck in Neutral, Shawn is still in his wheelchair, living in his internal world as things happen around him. His mother takes in Debi, a cousin with Downs Syndrome and her dog who both seem more aware of Shawn that other people.