UGLY

Robert Hoge was born with a tumor the size of a tennis ball in the middle of his face, and short, twisted legs. After extensive surgeries, he survived but was left legless, with a face molded by surgeons, including a new nose made from one of his discarded toes. Everybody seemed to agree that Robert was ''ugly.'' But Robert refused to let his face dictate his entire life. He had a happy childhood with his four siblings, filled with trips to the beach, troublemaking schemes, friendship, and games. When bullies called him names, he learned how to handle them. And when he was faced with the biggest choice of his life--between a surgery that might make his looks less striking but could destroy his sight, and living with his ''ugly'' face forever--Robert followed his heart.