She Touched the World: Laura Bridgman, Deaf-Blind Pioneer

• Age Range: 10 - 12 years

• Grade Level: 5 - 7

• Junior Library Guild Selection

• Best Books of 2008 by the New York Public library and American Book Sellers

• Selected for 2009 Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People

• Capitol Choices 2009: Noteworthy Titles Published for Children and Teens

  For classroom and reading resources, click here.

SUMMARY

When she was just two years old, Laura Bridgman lost her sight, her hearing, and most of her senses of smell and taste. At the time, no one believed a child with such severe disabilities could be taught to communicate, much less lead a full and productive life. But then a progressive doctor, who had just opened the country’s first school for the blind in Boston, took her in. Laura learned to communicate, read, and write—and eventually even to teach. Audiences flocked to see her, and she was loved and admired by children everywhere.

This fascinating and moving biography shows how Laura Bridgman paved the way for future generations of children with disabilities. As a blind person with some hearing loss, Sally Hobart Alexander lends a unique and intimate perspective to this inspiring account.

REVIEWS

“[This book] offers a salutary reminder that Helen Keller wasn't the only, or even first, woman to prove that deafness and blindness are not unsurpassable obstacles to becoming a functional member of society… the authors (one of whom is blind and partially deaf herself) cap their profile with a long afterword analyzing the changes of attitude that Bridgman helped to spark, and describing modern support systems for disabled people.  Illustrated with period photos and prints, and supported by extensive notes and resource lists, this will be a valuable and long-overdue addition to library shelves."—Kirkus Reviews