THE BOOK OF MATTHEW: THE STORY OF A LEARNING DISABLED CHILD. Wylie, Betty Jane. Toronto, McClelland and Stewart, c1984. 179pp, cloth, $18.95, ISBN 0-7710-9059-5. CIP Grades 9 and up Reviewed by John D. Crawford Volume 13 Number 4 1985 July The book of Matthew is the biography of a learning-disabled boy written by his mother. It details the tribulations and triumphs experienced by the family, and ends with Matthew beginning to encounter the problems associated with manhood. In recent years a substantial number of books have been published on subjects that a decade or so ago were considered taboo. As a society, we have tended to treat such subjects as incest, child abuse, and the variety of mental and physical handicaps as invisible. This is no longer true and reflects a growing acceptance of these problems and the need to develop a more open and healthy attitude in dealing with them. The Book of Matthew has many strengths. In the first place it is very well written. Betty Jane Wylie is an experienced writer and has produced a work that reads like a novel. Secondly, it is optimistic. The reader feels for the family, yet is hopeful that Matthew will lead a satisfying life. The book also provides an approach that is not only supportive but encourages the handicapped to fulfil their potential. Highly recommended for secondary school libraries. John D. Crawford, Frank Hobbs E.S., Victoria, B.C.