She Persisted: Helen Keller
By Carrie Kingsley,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Inspiring story of blind and deaf advocate for equal access.
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What's the Story?
The biography SHE PERSISTED: HELEN KELLER chronicles the life and accomplishments of Helen after she lost her sight and hearing from a childhood illness. With the help of a teacher, Anne Sullivan, Helen learned to read and speak, and learned how to communicate so that she wasn't isolated in her own world. Helen's parents fought for her to learn and grow in a society that didn't make space for her, and she became the first blind and deaf college graduate. She became an advocate for others' rights as a public speaker, author, and inspirational public figure.
Is It Any Good?
With a perfect balance of facts and inspiration, this Helen Keller biography pulls readers into the struggles and successes of an activist whose life was anything but easy. She Persisted: Helen Keller tells an amazing story, and reminds readers that everyone deserves the chance to be a happy, productive member of society. There are also some good lessons here about the importance of asking for, giving, and receiving help: Helen's work with her teacher, Anne, changed their lives forever. The list of ways readers can be active makes contributing both accessible and effective.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it would be like to be blind and deaf like in She Persisted: Helen Keller. What would be most difficult? What would you miss being able to do? Do you think you could find something positive about that experience?
Helen relied on others for her safety. What would it feel like to depend on people to keep you safe in your daily life?
What are some ways to help someone who has a disability?
Book Details
- Author: Courtney Sheinmel
- Illustrators: Alexandra Boiger , Gillian Flint
- Genre: Biography
- Topics: Activism , Friendship , Great Girl Role Models , History
- Book type: Non-Fiction
- Publisher: Philomel
- Publication date: December 7, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 6 - 9
- Number of pages: 80
- Available on: Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: April 26, 2022
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