A Birthday for Frances

“Your birthday is always the one that is not now.” Content Qualities Overview Author: Russell Hoban Illustrator: Lillian Hoban Type: Picture Book I Can Read! Level 2: High-Interest stories for developing readers Interest Age Range: 4 – 9 Optimal for Grades: PreK – 3 Guided Reading Level: K Questionable Content: (e.g. Profanity, Violence, Sex, Drugs) Not Present Scariness:… Read more A Birthday for Frances

Haben Girma

“Society frames people with disabilities as incapable of contributing. And yet, these kids treat me like someone with gifts to share and lessons to teach.”  ― Haben Girma, Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law In 2013, Haben Girma became the first deafblind person to graduate from Harvard Law School, earning a Doctor of Law Degree.… Read more Haben Girma

The Secret Lake

Content Qualities Overview Author: Karen Inglis Genre: Mystery, Time Travel Adventure Interest Age Range: 8 to 12  Optimal for Grades: 4 to 6 Questionable Content: (e.g. Profanity, Violence, Sex, Drugs) Some violence, hinted at more than described Scariness: 2 Key: 0 = virtually none 1 = very mild, some parts may be slightly frightening to the youngest… Read more The Secret Lake

Can Blind People Watch TV?

Yes! Although they may need certain modifications to fully access digital video content, many blind and visually impaired people enjoy TV and movies just like everyone else.  Some people with low vision may require an extra-large screen and a seat up front. Others who have no functional vision can still listen to the sound as… Read more Can Blind People Watch TV?

How to Teach Math to a Blind Student

Introduction No matter who your students are, whether they are sighted, low vision, or totally blind, the two fundamental principles of teaching apply: 1) hold high expectations for them 2) develop strong, respectful relationships with them Look past their physical limitations to the brilliant potential inside, waiting to be unlocked by your tender loving care. This article is directed… Read more How to Teach Math to a Blind Student

The Great Gracie Chase: “Stop That Dog!”

Content Qualities Overview Author: Cynthia Rylant Genre: Realistic Fiction Interest Age Range: 4 – 9 Optimal For Grades: K – 2 Guided Reading Level: K Questionable Content: (e.g. Profanity, Violence, Sex, Drugs) Not Present Scariness: 1 Explanation: In this picture book designed for younger readers, a pet dog ends up leaving the safety of home and running away… Read more The Great Gracie Chase: “Stop That Dog!”

The Blind Painter

Believe it or not, this magnificent painting was done by a totally blind artist! John Bramblitt lost his sight in 2001 due to complications caused by epilepsy. He can perceive some light, but that’s all. He cannot see any colors or shapes. Yet he discovered a revolutionary way to paint without sight. In fact, according to… Read more The Blind Painter

Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great by Judy Blume

“I’ve always believed that learning to think for yourself, learning to make intelligent, thoughtful decisions, is one of the most important parts of an education. ” Judy Blume — National Book Awards speech Content Qualities Overview Genre: Realistic Fiction Interest Age Range: 10 – 14     Optimal For Grades: 4 – 8  Guided Reading Level: R Questionable Content: (e.g. Profanity,… Read more Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great by Judy Blume