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Helen's Big World: The Life of Helen Keller
This picturebook biography is an excellent and accessible introduction for young readers to learn about one of the world's most influential luminaries. With her signature style of prose laced with stirring quotes, Doreen Rappaport brings to life Helen Keller's poignant narrative. Acclaimed illustrator Matt Tavares beautifully captures the dynamism and verve of Helen Keller's life and legacy, making "Helen's Big World" an unforgettable portrait of a woman whose vision for innovation and progress changed America--and the world--forever.
48 pages, Hardcover
First published October 16, 2012
3 people are currently reading
1065 people want to read
About the author
Doreen Rappaport
62 books77 followersDoreen Rappaport has written many books of fiction and nonfiction for young readers, specializing in thoroughly researched multicultural history, historical fiction, retellings of folktales and myths, and stories of those she calls the "not-yet-celebrated." Among her recent books is Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., illustrated by Bryan Collier, which received a Caldecott Honor Award and a Coretta Scott King Honor Award for illustration. Doreen Rappaport divides her time between New York City and a rural village in upstate New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
April 18, 2018
Helen Keller is such an inspiration to being human in my mind. I went to the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad museum yesterday and that with this makes me think of truly inspiring women who do things that seem impossible. Helen shows there is no excuse to not having what you want. I have found that much of the limitations in life come from our inner voice - 'you can't do that'. If you ignore that voice and say, I can do that, much of the time we really can. Helen had a deep understanding of life. I hope I can life my life to the fullest also. I hope I stop limiting myself.
This is a powerful story. I read Helen's autobiography, but I didn't know about her later life. She kept on doing amazing things in her life. She traveled the world speaking to crowds. It really is an amazing story. Doreen did a great job with this. She has quotes throughout the book of Helen's. The art is lovely and the whole thing is uplifting.
The kids both found it incredible Helen could learn to read and write when she couldn't see. I think it blew their minds. It was a hit.
This is a powerful story. I read Helen's autobiography, but I didn't know about her later life. She kept on doing amazing things in her life. She traveled the world speaking to crowds. It really is an amazing story. Doreen did a great job with this. She has quotes throughout the book of Helen's. The art is lovely and the whole thing is uplifting.
The kids both found it incredible Helen could learn to read and write when she couldn't see. I think it blew their minds. It was a hit.
October 2, 2012
Superior to almost all the longer children's biographies of Keller in that it doesn't shy away from her later life as a social activist. It never ceases to amaze how a superb writer like Rappaport can convey more of the reality of a story in 48 pages than a mediocre writer can in hundreds. The text is also enriched by dozens of quotes--giving readers a sense of Keller's own voice. Highly recommended.
October 17, 2012
Obviously this author amd artist have not had a lot of experience with deaf-blind people. I took a quick read of this in the bookstore and found many glaring errors and misrepresentations of these people and their language. To start with, the cover has "Braille" which is tactile but not actually useable to a blind person. The spacing is so large and the dots so small, the product is all but unreadable. It is, as my blind friend used to call it, Braille for the sighted.
I do not see any acknowledgements to anyone who actually uses finger spelling, or the Rochester method, as we now call it. If the author and artist had actually met some, the pictures would have depicted the position of Annie's spelling into Helen's hand in an accurate placement. I have never met someone who received letters in the way they depicted. I bet Helen hadn't either.
Some of the information is inaccurate, probably for simplicity's sake but it gives an inaccurate picture of deaf-blind world. No mention if the Perkins School for the Blind is given, which is where Annie was trained and who offered much support to both Annie and Helen. In addition, visually, only 30 percent of English is visible on the lips. The pictures of Helen with the tips of her fingers on Annie's lips are depicting an impossible feat. "Tadoma" users use both hands, both on the mouth and the throat. It is a particularly different experience of communication for the speaker.
It was nice that a children's book mentions Helen Keller's involvement in the political issues of the time such as women's suffrage and unions. The rest of the book is an overly romanticized depiction, consistent with the author's misunderstanding of this important person and the context from which she came.
I do not see any acknowledgements to anyone who actually uses finger spelling, or the Rochester method, as we now call it. If the author and artist had actually met some, the pictures would have depicted the position of Annie's spelling into Helen's hand in an accurate placement. I have never met someone who received letters in the way they depicted. I bet Helen hadn't either.
Some of the information is inaccurate, probably for simplicity's sake but it gives an inaccurate picture of deaf-blind world. No mention if the Perkins School for the Blind is given, which is where Annie was trained and who offered much support to both Annie and Helen. In addition, visually, only 30 percent of English is visible on the lips. The pictures of Helen with the tips of her fingers on Annie's lips are depicting an impossible feat. "Tadoma" users use both hands, both on the mouth and the throat. It is a particularly different experience of communication for the speaker.
It was nice that a children's book mentions Helen Keller's involvement in the political issues of the time such as women's suffrage and unions. The rest of the book is an overly romanticized depiction, consistent with the author's misunderstanding of this important person and the context from which she came.
February 5, 2013
A big, gorgeous, inspirational picture book about Helen Keller and her teacher Annie Sullivan. Like Martin's Big Words, the format includes inspirational quotes and key moments in Keller's life. A lovely introduction that will leave young readers wanting to learn more.
December 3, 2012
Excelling without Seeing
In Helen’s Big World, writer Doreen Rappaport shares an inspirational story about the life of Helen Keller and the obstacles she overcomes with her blindness. As Rappaport describes Helen’s determination and perseverance to reach her goals in life, despite her physical disabilities, life lessons of never giving up are revealed throughout the story.
The story begins with Helen’s life as a baby. When she was very young she became very ill. Her illness left her blind, deaf and unable to speak. Helen says, “I have the advantage of a mind trained to think, and that is the difference between myself and most people, not my blindness and their sight” (25).Doreen allows her audience to see Helen’s strength and wisdom through her words.
Doreen’s writing style is very unique for a children’s picture book. She has collected direct quotes from her subject and made the story come to life. The audience can empathize with Helen and her hardships in life based on the writing style Rappaport sets up. The illustrations are phenomenal and allow the students to feel more realistic to the students.
Doreen’s use of quotes in the story are an outstanding way to make the story more realistic however, the placing of the quotes are a little confusing for a younger audience to read. Sometimes the quotes are within the middle of the text which sometimes allows the text to lose some of its meaning.
This book creates a realistic image of Helen Keller’s life and allows the audience to feel the challenges she went through. The quotations included in the book made the writing come alive in a creative way. The vivid pictures captured the emotions and humanistic qualities of Helen and her family. If you are interested in learning more about Helen Keller or want to read an inspirational story, then you should read this book.
In Helen’s Big World, writer Doreen Rappaport shares an inspirational story about the life of Helen Keller and the obstacles she overcomes with her blindness. As Rappaport describes Helen’s determination and perseverance to reach her goals in life, despite her physical disabilities, life lessons of never giving up are revealed throughout the story.
The story begins with Helen’s life as a baby. When she was very young she became very ill. Her illness left her blind, deaf and unable to speak. Helen says, “I have the advantage of a mind trained to think, and that is the difference between myself and most people, not my blindness and their sight” (25).Doreen allows her audience to see Helen’s strength and wisdom through her words.
Doreen’s writing style is very unique for a children’s picture book. She has collected direct quotes from her subject and made the story come to life. The audience can empathize with Helen and her hardships in life based on the writing style Rappaport sets up. The illustrations are phenomenal and allow the students to feel more realistic to the students.
Doreen’s use of quotes in the story are an outstanding way to make the story more realistic however, the placing of the quotes are a little confusing for a younger audience to read. Sometimes the quotes are within the middle of the text which sometimes allows the text to lose some of its meaning.
This book creates a realistic image of Helen Keller’s life and allows the audience to feel the challenges she went through. The quotations included in the book made the writing come alive in a creative way. The vivid pictures captured the emotions and humanistic qualities of Helen and her family. If you are interested in learning more about Helen Keller or want to read an inspirational story, then you should read this book.
April 20, 2016
Helen’s Big World tells the inspiring life story of Helen Keller. Helen became ill when she was two years old and went deaf and blind. Doreen Rappaport integrates moving quotes throughout the book to compliment her writing, and it really adds life to the story. Helen Keller defies all odds against her and changes the world for the better. The story is an excellent way to introduce and discuss the life of Helen Keller in an inspiring and interesting way.
This book can be used in a classroom to teach students about disabilities. This can be a difficult topic to introduce to young children, and I think this book would be a really great way to do so. Students learn to treat everyone equally, and that people with disabilities should have the same respect and opportunities as everyone else. This book can also be used to teach students about perseverance. Helen Keller was a perfect example of someone who overcame extreme obstacles to be extremely successful and live a full life. This can be a valuable lesson for students in all aspects of their lives.
Helen’s Big World is a WOW book for me because of the thoughtful lessons it teaches about people with disabilities and perseverance. The beautiful pictures along with the profound quotes added an extra dimension to the actual story to bring Helen’s world to life. This book can be enjoyed by readers of all ages, and everyone can learn something from it. I truly enjoy reading about Helen and her life in this encouraging and engaging book.
This book can be used in a classroom to teach students about disabilities. This can be a difficult topic to introduce to young children, and I think this book would be a really great way to do so. Students learn to treat everyone equally, and that people with disabilities should have the same respect and opportunities as everyone else. This book can also be used to teach students about perseverance. Helen Keller was a perfect example of someone who overcame extreme obstacles to be extremely successful and live a full life. This can be a valuable lesson for students in all aspects of their lives.
Helen’s Big World is a WOW book for me because of the thoughtful lessons it teaches about people with disabilities and perseverance. The beautiful pictures along with the profound quotes added an extra dimension to the actual story to bring Helen’s world to life. This book can be enjoyed by readers of all ages, and everyone can learn something from it. I truly enjoy reading about Helen and her life in this encouraging and engaging book.
May 9, 2015
* Personal Reaction: I found this book really interesting. I thought it was cool that throughout the book there are quotes of Helen Keller’s. The quotes help the reader get a better understanding of who she was. The illustration did a great job of showing what is being said on the page.
* Read Aloud: This book would be great to read aloud to the students. Not only would teachers be introducing who Helen Keller is but they could also use this book to explain that everyone is different and have different obstacles to face in their lives.
* Independent Read: This would another great book for students to use for a biography unit or project. This book would probably be better for students in 4th to 6th grade. There is simple words and sentences throughout the book. The illustration help the reader visualize what is happening.
* Something that I thought was really cool about this book is in the back of the book there is a chart of how to form each letter in sign language. It says that Helen Keller would sometimes be spelled words in her hand using these sign language letters. There is also a timeline of important dates throughout Helen Keller’s life that help hit on the main points for students to better organize what happened. Another feature in the back of the book is a sources list. This helps the reader decide whether or not this would be a useful book.
* Read Aloud: This book would be great to read aloud to the students. Not only would teachers be introducing who Helen Keller is but they could also use this book to explain that everyone is different and have different obstacles to face in their lives.
* Independent Read: This would another great book for students to use for a biography unit or project. This book would probably be better for students in 4th to 6th grade. There is simple words and sentences throughout the book. The illustration help the reader visualize what is happening.
* Something that I thought was really cool about this book is in the back of the book there is a chart of how to form each letter in sign language. It says that Helen Keller would sometimes be spelled words in her hand using these sign language letters. There is also a timeline of important dates throughout Helen Keller’s life that help hit on the main points for students to better organize what happened. Another feature in the back of the book is a sources list. This helps the reader decide whether or not this would be a useful book.
February 13, 2016
Age Group: K-4
Genre: Autobiography
What an amazing picture biography of Helen Keller's challenges and triumphs!! Understanding Helen Keller's life can be a bit challenging at this age but the author and illustrator condensed the complicated story into a readable picture book that is captivating for young readers. I really like how the author placed quotes throughout the book to portray what was happening throughout her life. At the end of the book the author also provides a sign language chart which is helpful for children who may not have any prior knowledge about other ways in which people communicate.
It would definitely be a great idea to utilize the quotes and turn it into a project for students to build critical thinking techniques(specifically, upper elementary). For example, you could break your students into groups of 2-4 and assign them a particular quote from the book. Next, you could ask the students to summarize what that quote means to them in relation to the Helen Kellers life. Finally, you could have the children create some sort of illustration or Poster Project based on their own conclusions and how it ties back into the book.
In short,there are many many books about Helen Keller's life, but this one in particular offers an elusive perspective on her life and is most definitely a GOOD READ!
Genre: Autobiography
What an amazing picture biography of Helen Keller's challenges and triumphs!! Understanding Helen Keller's life can be a bit challenging at this age but the author and illustrator condensed the complicated story into a readable picture book that is captivating for young readers. I really like how the author placed quotes throughout the book to portray what was happening throughout her life. At the end of the book the author also provides a sign language chart which is helpful for children who may not have any prior knowledge about other ways in which people communicate.
It would definitely be a great idea to utilize the quotes and turn it into a project for students to build critical thinking techniques(specifically, upper elementary). For example, you could break your students into groups of 2-4 and assign them a particular quote from the book. Next, you could ask the students to summarize what that quote means to them in relation to the Helen Kellers life. Finally, you could have the children create some sort of illustration or Poster Project based on their own conclusions and how it ties back into the book.
In short,there are many many books about Helen Keller's life, but this one in particular offers an elusive perspective on her life and is most definitely a GOOD READ!
February 26, 2017
First sentence: Helen gurgled and giggled in her crib. At six months, she crawled and said, "How-d'ye," and "wah-wah," for water. When she was one, she ran after a ray of sunshine. she loved the mockingbird's song and the sweet smell of climbing roses. But best of all was being on her father's laps and in her mother's arms.
Premise/plot: Helen's Big World is a picture book biography of Helen Keller. Nearly every spread in this picture book includes a quote from Helen Keller herself. The narrative moves swiftly and is just beautiful.
My thoughts: Oh how I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this one!!!! I grew up LOVING the movie The Miracle Worker. And I've always been interested in Helen and Annie's lives. This one was a PERFECT match for me. The illustrations are BEAUTIFUL AND AMAZING. The quotes almost leave me speechless. This one was my favorite:
I also love this one:
Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10
Premise/plot: Helen's Big World is a picture book biography of Helen Keller. Nearly every spread in this picture book includes a quote from Helen Keller herself. The narrative moves swiftly and is just beautiful.
My thoughts: Oh how I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this one!!!! I grew up LOVING the movie The Miracle Worker. And I've always been interested in Helen and Annie's lives. This one was a PERFECT match for me. The illustrations are BEAUTIFUL AND AMAZING. The quotes almost leave me speechless. This one was my favorite:
I have the advantage of a mind trained to think, and that is the difference between myself and most people, not my blindness and their sight.
I also love this one:
I do not like the world as it is; so I am trying to make it a little more as I would like it.
Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10
February 13, 2016
A brief biography of Helen Keller's life. I find her inspiring...but I find Annie Sullivan just as inspiring...to willingly spend hours reading Helen's textbooks at the expense of her own eyes, to be Helen's teacher and companion for 49 years. I liked the inclusion of some of Helen's own words throughout the text. My students were engaged and asked many questions as I read this book.
I also thought the illustrations were gorgeous.
I also thought the illustrations were gorgeous.
July 21, 2012
I read this as an advanced copy. The cover has braille on it, which I think is wonderful. The illustrations are marvelous and the story also contains quotes from Keller. Goes beyond the books I was able to read about her as a kid. Includes history time line as well.
November 22, 2013
Excellent just like Rappaport's other picture book biographies. Covers Helen's entire life in brief, with realistic, beautiful paintings. Has quotes from Helen, and sources. Nice introduction to the famous person for young children.
December 4, 2017
I loved that Helen's adult life & social justice career is included in this story.
November 11, 2015
Helen’s Big World: The Life of Helen Keller by Doreen Rappaport is a beautifully written and illustrated biography about Helen Keller, a woman who was both blind and deaf. Helen was born with hearing and vision, but lost it after she got very sick as a baby. When Helen was 7, Annie Sullivan became her teacher and through hard work was able to teach Helen sign language, how to read braille, how to read lips, and even how to write. Rappaport does a great job of exploring Helen’s life from start to finish while still keeping the book relatively short and simple for younger readers. Each page includes text from the story, as well as a direct quote from Helen. These quotes give readers a deeper insight into Keller’s emotions throughout her life and help give credibility to this biography. Rappaport effectively shows the good and bad times in Keller’s life, not sugarcoating anything for readers which once again adds credibility to the book.
The illustrator, Matt Tavares, includes full page spreads of beautiful imagery to support the text. Tavares’ illustrations bring Helen’s struggles to life on the page and give her successes a beautiful setting. The images are so realistically drawn that it is hard not to become emotionally invested in the story, Helen’s family, and her life.
Overall, this is a stunning picture book with both eloquent storytelling of critical issues, deafness and blindness, and vivid, beautiful illustrations. I would definitely recommend this book for teachers or parents to read to their children if they are looking for a true story that is meaningful and enlightening. However, I think that it is definitely aimed at the older elementary readers, not the beginning readers, because there are a lot of words on each page and the book does discuss disabilities which might be hard for younger readers to understand on their own.
The illustrator, Matt Tavares, includes full page spreads of beautiful imagery to support the text. Tavares’ illustrations bring Helen’s struggles to life on the page and give her successes a beautiful setting. The images are so realistically drawn that it is hard not to become emotionally invested in the story, Helen’s family, and her life.
Overall, this is a stunning picture book with both eloquent storytelling of critical issues, deafness and blindness, and vivid, beautiful illustrations. I would definitely recommend this book for teachers or parents to read to their children if they are looking for a true story that is meaningful and enlightening. However, I think that it is definitely aimed at the older elementary readers, not the beginning readers, because there are a lot of words on each page and the book does discuss disabilities which might be hard for younger readers to understand on their own.
November 28, 2016
Plot Summary: This picture book biography explores through the life of Helen Keller. It starts out with talking about her birth and describing how her life was before the illness struck. When the illness struck, she had to relearn everything that she had previously learned. Helen struggled to understand life in general , until her friend/teacher named Annie came along. Annie taught Helen how to speak using sign language and how to read/write. Helen even went to college with the help of Annie. Helen went around speaking to the other disabled people and talking to people in general. Annie ended up passing away and Helen struggled to cope with the loss. Helen continued to do speeches and help other people until she passed away in her sleep.
Literary Merit: Style
The style of the writing is perfect towards the subject. It shows the straightforwardness of disability and the challenges that evoke from it. The dialogue is natural and suited towards the real life story of Helen. The mood is a feeling that evokes multiple emotions, being sad, happy, angry, confused, and etc. The style helps the reader understand Helen's style in her life and every day challenges. The style is one of the reason's this non-fiction book is excellent.
Personal Response:
This story reminds me of my own childhood. This story stuck with me throughout my life because Helen Keller is such an inspiration to anyone is able to see and hear.After reading this picture book biography, invite the students to consider the following question, why was Helen able to accomplish what she did? Students could also respond to the following free write prompt: Helen Keller is inspirational because..... Lastly, I could have the students read other picture book biographies about Helen Keller so they could create a timeline of events in her life.
This is a part of my text set.
Literary Merit: Style
The style of the writing is perfect towards the subject. It shows the straightforwardness of disability and the challenges that evoke from it. The dialogue is natural and suited towards the real life story of Helen. The mood is a feeling that evokes multiple emotions, being sad, happy, angry, confused, and etc. The style helps the reader understand Helen's style in her life and every day challenges. The style is one of the reason's this non-fiction book is excellent.
Personal Response:
This story reminds me of my own childhood. This story stuck with me throughout my life because Helen Keller is such an inspiration to anyone is able to see and hear.After reading this picture book biography, invite the students to consider the following question, why was Helen able to accomplish what she did? Students could also respond to the following free write prompt: Helen Keller is inspirational because..... Lastly, I could have the students read other picture book biographies about Helen Keller so they could create a timeline of events in her life.
This is a part of my text set.
April 15, 2016
"Helen's Big World: The Life of Helen Keller" by Doreen Rappaport is a great book meant to welcome readers into the life of an amazing and inspiring woman, Helen Keller. The book starts by introducing its audience to Helen as a baby, and explaining that at a young age, Helen lost her sight as well as her hearing due to an illness. Then Rappaport goes in depth into how Helen struggled to find a way to communicate until a teacher named Annie came into her life. Annie impacted Helen's life in a way we will never understand. She gave her the gift of knowledge by teaching her ways to communicate, and giving her a voice in this world.
This biography is a great way for younger readers to learn about dedication and motivation through the life of a strong woman. Rappaport made the book even more awesome, by adding Helen Keller quotes throughout the pages that flowed with the text. This book would be considered a complete biography because it talks about her whole life rather than just a part of her life. Rappaport's style of writing is easy to understand and would be appealing to a child, and the illustrations are beautifully created and add a lot to the text. In the illustrations we could see the emotion in Helen's face and that made the book even more real to its readers. It is a great book that exposes children to the outside world, and inspires them to believe that anything is possible when you set your mind to it. Something that I loved about the book, was that it did not glorify Helen, or was opinionated. It just explained her life and allowed the reader to create their own judgement or opinions on the person.
This biography is a great way for younger readers to learn about dedication and motivation through the life of a strong woman. Rappaport made the book even more awesome, by adding Helen Keller quotes throughout the pages that flowed with the text. This book would be considered a complete biography because it talks about her whole life rather than just a part of her life. Rappaport's style of writing is easy to understand and would be appealing to a child, and the illustrations are beautifully created and add a lot to the text. In the illustrations we could see the emotion in Helen's face and that made the book even more real to its readers. It is a great book that exposes children to the outside world, and inspires them to believe that anything is possible when you set your mind to it. Something that I loved about the book, was that it did not glorify Helen, or was opinionated. It just explained her life and allowed the reader to create their own judgement or opinions on the person.
April 11, 2016
1. What is the book about?
The book is about a young girl named Helen Keller. When Helen was two years old, she contracted an illness that left her blind and deaf. As Helen was growing up, she would often kick and scream at her parents out of frustration. Fortunately, Helen's family hired someone who would help Helen be able to communicate better with others, her name was Annie Sullivan. Annie helped Helen learn braille. Using braille, Helen could communicate more effectively with her parents. Helen decided to go to college. Annie went with Helen and helped Helen throughout college. Even after college, the two remained friends forever.
2. What are the illustrations like?
The illustrations are on one side of the page while the text is on the other. When Helen was unable to see, the colors were very dark. However when Annie arrived, the colors were yellow and pink, more cheerful colors. When Helen was throwing a fit, there was a lot of diagonal lines, which creates chaos. When Helen was learning how to sign with Annie, there were more horizontal lines, creating a more calm scene.
3. What can you take away from the book?
I think book would be great for kids. There aren't many words on a single page so the book is an easy page-turner. I think it's a good book because the story of Helen Keller is very famous. I would recommend this book to someone who is second or third grade. Also, if any student in the class has a friend or family member who is going through a similar situation, this would be a perfect book for them.
The book is about a young girl named Helen Keller. When Helen was two years old, she contracted an illness that left her blind and deaf. As Helen was growing up, she would often kick and scream at her parents out of frustration. Fortunately, Helen's family hired someone who would help Helen be able to communicate better with others, her name was Annie Sullivan. Annie helped Helen learn braille. Using braille, Helen could communicate more effectively with her parents. Helen decided to go to college. Annie went with Helen and helped Helen throughout college. Even after college, the two remained friends forever.
2. What are the illustrations like?
The illustrations are on one side of the page while the text is on the other. When Helen was unable to see, the colors were very dark. However when Annie arrived, the colors were yellow and pink, more cheerful colors. When Helen was throwing a fit, there was a lot of diagonal lines, which creates chaos. When Helen was learning how to sign with Annie, there were more horizontal lines, creating a more calm scene.
3. What can you take away from the book?
I think book would be great for kids. There aren't many words on a single page so the book is an easy page-turner. I think it's a good book because the story of Helen Keller is very famous. I would recommend this book to someone who is second or third grade. Also, if any student in the class has a friend or family member who is going through a similar situation, this would be a perfect book for them.
May 10, 2015
Personal Reaction:
For as long as I could remember I have always been interested in Helen Keller’s story. Growing up my next door neighbor who also happened to be my best friend was half way deaf so I have always had a soft spot for this disability. As I was reading this book I could not have been more amazed. Helen was both blind and deaf and how she handled her situation was incredible. I would for sure use this book in my classroom.
Purpose/Use in Classroom:
As a read aloud I would use this story for a biography or disability unit. It would be a great book to help explain to students that everyone goes through things and just because they are different does not mean they are any less of a person. If the students were to read this book independently I would suggest that they should read it during fourth or fifth grade and I think anyone would enjoy this but especially someone who likes to read biographies.
Elements:
I believe the theme of this story is a great one for students to learn. Just not to judge anyone who is different from you. The theme adds so much to the overall story. But also the characterization in this story is very important as well for the readers to get a better understanding on who Helen Keller was. Overall I believe this was a great book for students to read.
For as long as I could remember I have always been interested in Helen Keller’s story. Growing up my next door neighbor who also happened to be my best friend was half way deaf so I have always had a soft spot for this disability. As I was reading this book I could not have been more amazed. Helen was both blind and deaf and how she handled her situation was incredible. I would for sure use this book in my classroom.
Purpose/Use in Classroom:
As a read aloud I would use this story for a biography or disability unit. It would be a great book to help explain to students that everyone goes through things and just because they are different does not mean they are any less of a person. If the students were to read this book independently I would suggest that they should read it during fourth or fifth grade and I think anyone would enjoy this but especially someone who likes to read biographies.
Elements:
I believe the theme of this story is a great one for students to learn. Just not to judge anyone who is different from you. The theme adds so much to the overall story. But also the characterization in this story is very important as well for the readers to get a better understanding on who Helen Keller was. Overall I believe this was a great book for students to read.
November 13, 2015
This book begins with Helen being 6months being as happy and normal as can be. Then at 9months Helen received a illness that caused her to no longer see or hear. Then when she was seven a women named Annie came to help Hellen. She taught her by spelling out the names of objects on her palm. Months go on and Hellen is taught how to see with her fingers and how to spell a thousand more words. When Hellen is 8 years old she becomes famous because she is writing in sentences. She is now able to communicate with her family; people were amazed of what she could do. She went off to college to graduate with honors. She became a spokes person and faugh for what she believed was right. Hellen died at the age of 88.
This is a biography of Helens life and how powerful her story was. The illustrations property show how her life was. They are relatable to the time period of when it happened. I enjoyed reading this book because it shows the little details of what happened in her life. I didn't know that Annie spent her whole life helping Helen. It was so interesting to me because Annie cared about her so much that she would have a whole life with her until the day she died. That takes teaching to a whole other level. I think this is good book to use in classroom because it is not a hard read and its not complex for children to read alone. Overall this is a good Biography.
This is a biography of Helens life and how powerful her story was. The illustrations property show how her life was. They are relatable to the time period of when it happened. I enjoyed reading this book because it shows the little details of what happened in her life. I didn't know that Annie spent her whole life helping Helen. It was so interesting to me because Annie cared about her so much that she would have a whole life with her until the day she died. That takes teaching to a whole other level. I think this is good book to use in classroom because it is not a hard read and its not complex for children to read alone. Overall this is a good Biography.
November 13, 2015
Helen's Big World: The Life of Helen by Doreen Rapport is an auto biography picture book about Helen Keller's life. Helen was a normal little baby girl, who loved to laugh and spend time with her parents. At 19 months old, Helen became sick and ultimately lost her sight and hearing. It was a struggle for her to learn and live the life of a normal child. A teacher named Annie came into her life and helped her. She taught her how to read braille, which made Helen able to communicate. Helen started giving speeches and quickly became famous. She was famous for what she had to say, and also because she was the firs known speaker that was blind AND deaf at the same time. Some people of her generation referred to her as a genius, because she seemed incapable of living a normal life but accomplished many things.
I enjoyed this story lot. The illustrations were outstanding in color and helped capture the innocence and beauty of Helen.The pictures really add to the story. The story is informational and never becomes boring. It is made for a child because it is so simple, but I think any age could read it and enjoy the information and story within. The story is easy to understand and entertaining throughout.
I enjoyed this story lot. The illustrations were outstanding in color and helped capture the innocence and beauty of Helen.The pictures really add to the story. The story is informational and never becomes boring. It is made for a child because it is so simple, but I think any age could read it and enjoy the information and story within. The story is easy to understand and entertaining throughout.
November 16, 2015
Annotation: Helen Keller when she was born could do everything a normal baby could do, but when she was 19 months old Helen got really sick that caused her to go blind, deaf, and not speak. Helen had a difficult life trying to adapt to the world with only a sense of smell and taste. Although it was difficult for her she found a love for the world and this all started with her teacher Annie Sullivan. Annie helped Helen to use table manners, how to read, write, and most of all enjoy life. Annie was always right by Helen through everything. Helen even went to college and graduated with honors. Helen does not know what her life would have been like without Annie, but she is happy to of had Annie their by her side.
Classroom connections/Personal response: In the back of the book there is a page that has sign language, and also on the cover of the book there is Braille. This would be a connection to teach sign and also Braille in the classroom. Another way this book can be used in the classroom is by having students do a science experiment where they can only use their sense of smell and taste. This would then allow children to understand what it is like to be blind, deaf, and not be able to speak.
Classroom connections/Personal response: In the back of the book there is a page that has sign language, and also on the cover of the book there is Braille. This would be a connection to teach sign and also Braille in the classroom. Another way this book can be used in the classroom is by having students do a science experiment where they can only use their sense of smell and taste. This would then allow children to understand what it is like to be blind, deaf, and not be able to speak.
March 24, 2016
This book is a biography based on the life of Helen Keller. The story begins when she is a little girl and describes her life events until she passes away at the age of 87. The story explains how she overcame her physical disabilities of being deaf and blind and made many accomplishments over time. With the help from Annie Sullivan, Helen Keller was pushed to set her self-apart from others and remained determined. The story is strengthened with the use Helen Keller’s own voice used through quotations on each page. The story enables readers to learn about the challenges and triumphs in Helen Keller’s life. With using less than 50 pages, the author and illustrator worked together to provide the readers with a strong sense of reality regarding Helen Keller’s life. The story captures a realistic image of Helen Keller’s life through the text and illustrations. Particularly, the details in the illustrations provide a vivid image of her life. In the back of the book, the author provided a page that has sign language and the cover has Braille. Both of these features can be used for teachers to create hands on activities for their students to truly understand what Helen Keller had to face. Overall, the story is inspiring and captures the challenges Helen Keller chose to overcome.
April 15, 2016
This book is a great biographical book with a perfect reality illustration. This book took about Helen’s Big World. Also, the story about the Helen life and the obstacles that she had, and how she overcomes with her blindness. Her perseverance to reach her goals in life and tried to be a positive person despite the difficulties in her life due to her physical disabilities. The young reader can learn many things from her life story such as being patient, have a hope.
I like the style of Doreen’s writing especially, when she has collected direct quotes with clear meaning, so the reader will feel like the story come to life. I would recommend this story to the young reader between 8-10 years old.
I really enjoy reading and seeing the great illustrations which are more realistic. The illustrations are on one side of the page while the text is on the other on most pages, not all. Moreover, the colors were very affected such as when Helen was unable to see, the colors were very dark. On the other hand, in some situations of the story, there are more cheerful colors such as when Annie arrived.
Finally, in the back of the book, the is a page that has sign language and the cover has Braille. So, I think the students can enjoy, and learn some basic Idea about the sign language.
I like the style of Doreen’s writing especially, when she has collected direct quotes with clear meaning, so the reader will feel like the story come to life. I would recommend this story to the young reader between 8-10 years old.
I really enjoy reading and seeing the great illustrations which are more realistic. The illustrations are on one side of the page while the text is on the other on most pages, not all. Moreover, the colors were very affected such as when Helen was unable to see, the colors were very dark. On the other hand, in some situations of the story, there are more cheerful colors such as when Annie arrived.
Finally, in the back of the book, the is a page that has sign language and the cover has Braille. So, I think the students can enjoy, and learn some basic Idea about the sign language.
Read
December 30, 2015The top GR review said, "Superior to almost all the longer children's biographies of Keller in that it doesn't shy away from her later life as a social activist." and I was sold.
However, I hadn't scrolled down to the review about the fake Braille on the cover and the pictorial misrepresentation of finger-spelling and Tadoma (placing your fringes on the speaker's lips, jawline, and cheeks) :/ (Though reading the book, both the picture and the text do mention touching the throat.)
I do like that quotes from Keller herself are interspersed in the text -- though I'm not sure how smoothly that would work in reading the story to a young child.
And that the narrative does't particularly suggest that being deafblind itself was particularly a bad thing, it was just that Keller found herself unable to communicate that was so frustrating. (And later it includes this quote from Keller: "The chief handicap of the blind is not blindness, but the attitude of seeing people toward them.")
However, I hadn't scrolled down to the review about the fake Braille on the cover and the pictorial misrepresentation of finger-spelling and Tadoma (placing your fringes on the speaker's lips, jawline, and cheeks) :/ (Though reading the book, both the picture and the text do mention touching the throat.)
I do like that quotes from Keller herself are interspersed in the text -- though I'm not sure how smoothly that would work in reading the story to a young child.
And that the narrative does't particularly suggest that being deafblind itself was particularly a bad thing, it was just that Keller found herself unable to communicate that was so frustrating. (And later it includes this quote from Keller: "The chief handicap of the blind is not blindness, but the attitude of seeing people toward them.")
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April 15, 2016Doreen Rappaport’s picture book, “Helen’s Big World: the Life of Helen Keller” tells the inspirational story of Helen Keller and the obstacles she overcame due to her blindness, and her teacher, Annie Sullivan. This book is a biography as it is based on Helen Keller’s life from the moment she was a little girl until she passed away at the age of 87.Throughout the book a number of her quotes are incorporated to point out key moments in Keller’s life.
This biography story will help the students learn important lessons and will allow them to build their self-esteem. Every individual lives through certain struggles, even at a young age, and this short story will help them realize that an obstacle should not be the final factor before quitting, it should be a factor that helps them keep looking forward and work towards their goal. It will also provide a new mentor/ hero to look up to. “Helen’s Big World” is a book worth reading as is opens the eyes of readers to relating to a world outside their own.
This biography story will help the students learn important lessons and will allow them to build their self-esteem. Every individual lives through certain struggles, even at a young age, and this short story will help them realize that an obstacle should not be the final factor before quitting, it should be a factor that helps them keep looking forward and work towards their goal. It will also provide a new mentor/ hero to look up to. “Helen’s Big World” is a book worth reading as is opens the eyes of readers to relating to a world outside their own.
December 16, 2015
Summary: Helen’s Big World: The Life of Helen Keller is the biography of Helen Keller, a woman that accomplished a lot in her lifetime despite being born both blind and deaf. This is a picture book written for younger children and gives readers a great introduction to the life of Helen Keller.
Genre: Biography
Classroom use: I would use this as an independent read for students and could have them read it to complete a research project on a person that made a difference in the world. I could also use this book to teach children that they can do anything they want to, despite any disability they may have.
Writing traits:
Voice: The author has a very distinctive writing style, and is able to show Helen Keller’s personality through the use of many great quotes.
Word Choice: The author uses descriptive and age appropriate vocabulary for young students.
Interest Level: 3rd-5th grade
Reading Level: 4
Genre: Biography
Classroom use: I would use this as an independent read for students and could have them read it to complete a research project on a person that made a difference in the world. I could also use this book to teach children that they can do anything they want to, despite any disability they may have.
Writing traits:
Voice: The author has a very distinctive writing style, and is able to show Helen Keller’s personality through the use of many great quotes.
Word Choice: The author uses descriptive and age appropriate vocabulary for young students.
Interest Level: 3rd-5th grade
Reading Level: 4
October 10, 2016
This book adapted a biography into a very well suited picture book for children. I really liked how on every page there was an actual quote from Helen Keller which went along with the part of her life that was on those pages. This biography in particular was very nice because it highlighted Helen's life rather than talking about her disabilities and all the sad things that happened to her. I think this is important for children to understand because they should know that a disability doesn't define a person and we should never assume someone is not talented or important just because they are disabled. I think the illustrations in this book are extremely powerful because there was so much detail in the style of illustration. This book was a very good book and I think people of all ages could benefit from reading this.
December 5, 2016
1. Original 3 line summary: Helen's Big World is biography about Helen Keller and the struggles she's had to overcome. After recovering from an illness Keller is left blind and deaf. She eventually goes to live with Annie Sullivan who helps her learn that she is a strong and smart young lady. Throughout the story Rappaport introduces real quotes from Helen Keller.
2. Original 3 line review: I found this to be a really heartfelt and inspirational book. I have always loved learning about Helen Keller but I found the writing of this book to be particularly great. The biography also included fantastic illustrations by Matt Tavares.
3. Other books you might pair with/connect to: Henry's Freedom Box
4. A “delicious” quote from the book: "We do not think with eyes and ears, and our capacity for thought is not measured by five senses. "
2. Original 3 line review: I found this to be a really heartfelt and inspirational book. I have always loved learning about Helen Keller but I found the writing of this book to be particularly great. The biography also included fantastic illustrations by Matt Tavares.
3. Other books you might pair with/connect to: Henry's Freedom Box
4. A “delicious” quote from the book: "We do not think with eyes and ears, and our capacity for thought is not measured by five senses. "
May 14, 2015
Helen's Big World: The Life of Helen Keller; written by: Doreen Rappaport; Copyright 2012, 36 pg.
*2015 Monarch Nominee*
This book is a touching story of Helen Keller's life. Many know of the hardships that Helen Keller faced in her life, but this book brings it to a new perspective. Not only does it tell the story but the illustrations of how Helen viewed the world without seeing, but the illustrations make it come to life.
This is a fantastic read not only for those who would like to know more about Helen and the struggles that she faced, but also for those who would like to read a story of inspiration and perseverance. I recommend this book for a read aloud, and also for grades 2-4.
*2015 Monarch Nominee*
This book is a touching story of Helen Keller's life. Many know of the hardships that Helen Keller faced in her life, but this book brings it to a new perspective. Not only does it tell the story but the illustrations of how Helen viewed the world without seeing, but the illustrations make it come to life.
This is a fantastic read not only for those who would like to know more about Helen and the struggles that she faced, but also for those who would like to read a story of inspiration and perseverance. I recommend this book for a read aloud, and also for grades 2-4.
November 13, 2015
I really liked this book, I had heard of Helen Keller, but I had no idea how inspirational her biography was. Her biography starts out from when she was a baby until she died. She talks about the hard time she had with learning to read, write, and speak.
I liked how it didn't just focus on her life but it included a very important person like her teacher Annie. It was a very humble and honest story, because in my opinion she might have not done what she had with out Annie’s determination. I especially liked how she told the story from birth to death because in some biographies we are left wondering what happened to the protagonist.
I liked how it didn't just focus on her life but it included a very important person like her teacher Annie. It was a very humble and honest story, because in my opinion she might have not done what she had with out Annie’s determination. I especially liked how she told the story from birth to death because in some biographies we are left wondering what happened to the protagonist.
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