Sunday, February 2, 2014

Great book found in the depths of the library...


This post, I want to tell you about a very nice fiction book that I read. I happened to stumble across this book while a was reading a book order packet thingy. The book is ...

Blindsided by Priscilla Cummings

In many ways, Natalie O'Reilly is a typical fourteen year old girl, but she was born without irises, and has juvenile glaucoma. Glaucoma is a disease where fluid builds up in the eye, causing pressure on the vital organs. But then Natalie learns she will lose her sight within a few months. Natalie is sent to a school for the blind in Baltimore to learn skills such as Braille and how to use a cane. Outwardly, she does as she's told-- inwardly, she hopes for a miracle that will free her from a dreaded life of blindness. 

But the miracle does not come. In just one night, she turns completely blind. Natalie must confront every blind person's dilemma. Will she go home to live scared? Or will she embrace the skills she needs to make it in a world without sight?

This book really teaches the readers that the blind and others with disabilities are capable of doing things that those without disabilities can. The book talked about many everyday obstacles blind people have, which are things people just take for granted.They find ways to get around the obstacles. This book has many unexpected twists and turns. Natalie's internal conflicts make it easier for the readers to sympathize with her. Let me know what you think! :)