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A Different Way of Seeing: A Blind Woman's Journey of Living an "Ordinary" life in an Extraordinary Way
Have you ever wondered how a blind person pours a cup of coffee? Or how they and their guide dog know when it's safe to cross a busy road?
When Lois Strachan lost her sight at the age of 21 years she had to learn the answers to these and countless other questions of how to live as a blind person in a sighted world.
In this delightfully quirky and entertaining book Lois shares some of the secrets she discovered about how to live an "ordinary" life in an extraordinary way despite her blindness.
"An entertaining, informative and educational read that gives you an insight into the life of an inspirational woman who lives life to the fullest. Well worth reading."
Gail Glover - Executive Director, South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind
"A must-read for anyone, with or without a disability."
Hanif Kruger -Resource Centre Manager, South African National Council for the Blind
"Lois's stories provide insights on how to positively deal with the challenges in life to emerge victorious."
Bob "Idea Man Hooey - author of "Why didn't I 'THINK' of that?"
"In her fascinating account of the life of a blind person, Lois Strachan lifts the lid on aspects of life that most of us take for granted. We should all learn a lot from Lois's different way of seeing."
George Mahood - Author of Free Country & Every Day is a Holiday
When Lois Strachan lost her sight at the age of 21 years she had to learn the answers to these and countless other questions of how to live as a blind person in a sighted world.
In this delightfully quirky and entertaining book Lois shares some of the secrets she discovered about how to live an "ordinary" life in an extraordinary way despite her blindness.
"An entertaining, informative and educational read that gives you an insight into the life of an inspirational woman who lives life to the fullest. Well worth reading."
Gail Glover - Executive Director, South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind
"A must-read for anyone, with or without a disability."
Hanif Kruger -Resource Centre Manager, South African National Council for the Blind
"Lois's stories provide insights on how to positively deal with the challenges in life to emerge victorious."
Bob "Idea Man Hooey - author of "Why didn't I 'THINK' of that?"
"In her fascinating account of the life of a blind person, Lois Strachan lifts the lid on aspects of life that most of us take for granted. We should all learn a lot from Lois's different way of seeing."
George Mahood - Author of Free Country & Every Day is a Holiday
- GenresNonfiction
209 pages, Paperback
Published October 30, 2016
9 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Lois Strachan
8 books14 followersWhen Lois Strachan became blind at the age of 21, she realized she had a choice. She could let her blindness determine the rest of her life, or she could go out and see what was still possible for her as a blind woman living in a sighted world.
A week after losing her sight Lois joined a rock band. Three weeks after losing her sight she returned to university to complete her bachelor’s degree.
In her books Lois talks openly about the reality of being blind. Her books include
A Different Way of Seeing: A Blind Woman’s Journey of Living an “Ordinary” Life in an Extraordinary Way (memoir),
Paws for Thought: Seeing the World Through the Eyes of a Guide Dog
And
The Adventures of Missy Mouse (illustrated books for younger readers)
Lois is an avid reader, tea drinker, and loves hot and spicy foods. When not writing, Lois is a motivational speaker, podcaster, disability advocate, and a sometime rock musician. She lives in Cape Town, South Africa, with her husband and a house full of dogs, one of whom is her writing partner, Guide Dog Fiji.
A week after losing her sight Lois joined a rock band. Three weeks after losing her sight she returned to university to complete her bachelor’s degree.
In her books Lois talks openly about the reality of being blind. Her books include
A Different Way of Seeing: A Blind Woman’s Journey of Living an “Ordinary” Life in an Extraordinary Way (memoir),
Paws for Thought: Seeing the World Through the Eyes of a Guide Dog
And
The Adventures of Missy Mouse (illustrated books for younger readers)
Lois is an avid reader, tea drinker, and loves hot and spicy foods. When not writing, Lois is a motivational speaker, podcaster, disability advocate, and a sometime rock musician. She lives in Cape Town, South Africa, with her husband and a house full of dogs, one of whom is her writing partner, Guide Dog Fiji.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 28, 2020
Ok, I am the author's husband and I freely admin my bias. However, this is an interesting story of how a blind person goes about her daily life. It is light reading, informative, and full of anecdotes.
I recommend this book for anybody that is disabled, who knows somebody that is disabled, or is just curious about how some people get on with life in a challenging world.
I recommend this book for anybody that is disabled, who knows somebody that is disabled, or is just curious about how some people get on with life in a challenging world.
October 26, 2020
Lois Strachan, author of the charming Missy Mouse series of children's books, hits it out of the park with this memoir. Her honest and affirming, upbeat portrayal of the challenges of thriving in life--without the advantage of eyesight--is informative, compelling, and encouraging. Her courage and expansive sense of humor shine through on every page. I learned a great deal about living with blindness and hope that, as a sighted person, I can use this knowledge the next time I'm in contact with someone who is blind. I highly recommend this peek behind the curtain at the life of someone living with blindness in a way that will inspire us all.
October 26, 2020
This book was a window on a world about which I know very little. Lois writes in a conversational style.. Its like sitting down over a cup of coffee chatting with her. She has covered a number of areas and explained how she builds a life for herself in a sighted world. The stories are humorous, quirky and eye opening. I realise how much I take for granted as a sighted person. I really enjoyed the updates.. How time has changed her journey and how experience and technology has changed her journey.
This book answered questions I have always wanted to ask but wasn't sure I could.. And it answered questions I didn't realise I had! I may be biased as a lab lover but I especially loved the chapter on the dogs of her life. And I was fascinated by her account of travelling as a blind person... It made me want to travel differently as I realised there is much I miss because my focus is on what I see and not really on what I can smell or hear for example.
So all in all an interesting read that gives a window on the world of a blind person in a humorous and conversational way.
This book answered questions I have always wanted to ask but wasn't sure I could.. And it answered questions I didn't realise I had! I may be biased as a lab lover but I especially loved the chapter on the dogs of her life. And I was fascinated by her account of travelling as a blind person... It made me want to travel differently as I realised there is much I miss because my focus is on what I see and not really on what I can smell or hear for example.
So all in all an interesting read that gives a window on the world of a blind person in a humorous and conversational way.
February 27, 2017
Love Lois's book! It is heart-warming, humorous and inspirational. Everyone should read this book, it should be read in schools! Not only do you find out how a blind person does every day things and has many fun filled adventures! You learn how truly amazing working dogs are, and the incredible love and bond they have with their non-furry parent. The greatest message for me was that no matter if the most unimaginably scary thing happens to you in life your inner strength, loving support of friends and family and passion make achieving the most remarkable things possible.
January 13, 2017
An enlightening insight into the way that a friend, and other people like Lois, view the world. Her humorous tone keeps one chuckling throughout, while unraveling some of her fascinating tips and tricks for coping with everyday tasks. An easy read, at times poignant, but always lighthearted - her writing style lures you on to the next chapter, and the next, and the next.
October 30, 2020
You don’t have to be blind to feel the courage and strength and humour that Lois Strachan demonstrates in her book, A Different Way of Seeing.
Lois dreams in pictures and colours and this memoir has countless colourful anecdotes that are beautifully visualised in words.
You can see her crossing the street, hugging a tree, searching for food on her plate (and spilling some down the front of her shirt).
It was fascinating to find out how Lois copes with everyday tasks, how she lives a “normal” life. Getting dressed, applying make-up, and cooking, are just a few activities that present challenges that she has mastered. She does these things with the help of technology, apps, and the support of her husband, friends, and volunteers.
A worthy read to gain insight and understanding into the way of life for the blind.
October 29, 2020
Lois answers all the questions you've wanted to ask, and all the questions you didn't know you had as well. Her positive, humour-filled attitude fills each page as she takes us through her transition from sighted to blind, and her journey in adapting daily life and tasks.
As a mom of a child with a disability, the challenges with regards to public awareness resonate, as does Lois' use of technology which has sparked some additional ideas for this in our own life beyond the obvious. This book is a must read for everyone - whether you or someone you know is blind, has another type of disability, or not!
Lois inspires with the opportunities she creates, the goals she sets herself and achieves, and her live-life-to-the-full approach.
As a mom of a child with a disability, the challenges with regards to public awareness resonate, as does Lois' use of technology which has sparked some additional ideas for this in our own life beyond the obvious. This book is a must read for everyone - whether you or someone you know is blind, has another type of disability, or not!
Lois inspires with the opportunities she creates, the goals she sets herself and achieves, and her live-life-to-the-full approach.
February 18, 2017
I have just finished reading Lois Strachan’s first book, ‘A different Way of Seeing’.
This story is a beautiful snapshot of intimate experiences detailing the highlights and sometimes lowlights of living with a visual impairment. With a touch of dry humour and quick wit, Lois shares her stories in a relatable and easy to read voice. Lois’ approach to problem solving is pragmatic and uncomplicated - a lesson to all of us in how to unclutter our lives. As a sighted person who lives with a visually impaired person, many of the tales struck a personal note with me. I found myself nodding my head in agreement with many of the challenges faced and frustrations experienced. I found myself smiling too at the uncompromising strength and resolve of the human spirit.
This read is extraordinary: not because it is about sight loss; not because it was written by a blind woman; but rather because it is about an interesting life well-lived. Thank-you, Lois, for sharing your story, I look forward to your next book! #BlindWomanCan
This story is a beautiful snapshot of intimate experiences detailing the highlights and sometimes lowlights of living with a visual impairment. With a touch of dry humour and quick wit, Lois shares her stories in a relatable and easy to read voice. Lois’ approach to problem solving is pragmatic and uncomplicated - a lesson to all of us in how to unclutter our lives. As a sighted person who lives with a visually impaired person, many of the tales struck a personal note with me. I found myself nodding my head in agreement with many of the challenges faced and frustrations experienced. I found myself smiling too at the uncompromising strength and resolve of the human spirit.
This read is extraordinary: not because it is about sight loss; not because it was written by a blind woman; but rather because it is about an interesting life well-lived. Thank-you, Lois, for sharing your story, I look forward to your next book! #BlindWomanCan
October 31, 2020
What a lovely read! To be perfectly honest, I was drawn to the book in the first place, because of the dog on the front cover. Then my interest was deepened, when I realised that the lady on the cover is blind as well! I have often wondered how people with such challenging obstacles in life, cope on a day to day basis. As it turns out, this lady not only coped but thrived, and embraced her situation with a surprisingly positive attitude, lively sense of humour and a strong will to achieve whatever she wanted to!
My favourite sections of this book are undoubtedly those that feature her guide dogs. Being a volunteer ‘puppy raiser’ for the Guide Dog Association myself, it’s a topic that’s very close to my heart. It was fascinating to get some insight into her daily life, where she explains how she interacts with her guide dog, and the things that they do together. The best part for me, was reading about how her guide dog has enriched her life!
My favourite sections of this book are undoubtedly those that feature her guide dogs. Being a volunteer ‘puppy raiser’ for the Guide Dog Association myself, it’s a topic that’s very close to my heart. It was fascinating to get some insight into her daily life, where she explains how she interacts with her guide dog, and the things that they do together. The best part for me, was reading about how her guide dog has enriched her life!
September 1, 2018
A Different Way of Seeing: A Blind Woman's Journey of Living an Ordinary Life in an Extraordinary Way
byLois Strachan is one of those books that, I am sure, will provide valuable insights that are huge in terms of making a positive difference to the reader's perspective on visual impairment and blindness in particular and on disability in general.
It is a book filled with practical explanations, lots of funny moments and amazing insights on how to live life despite facing challenges on a daily basis in the real world.
I was gripped from the start by this author's light-hearted, engaging style of writing. Being visually impaired myself, I could identify with the vast majority of what Lois wrote in this remarkable book.
I believe that it is a book that could be invaluable to those dealing with visual impairment and blindness, be it someone experiencing sight loss themselves, a carer or family member, those who work in the field of disability services or for anyone who has wondered, at some or other time in their lives, how one can function on a daily basis without the sense of sight.
I found the introduction to this book especially poignant, placing us squarely into the picture, so to speak. I at once found myself alongside the author, ready to join her on her fascinating journey.
I also really enjoyed the chapter where Craig, Lois's husband, gave a glimpse into his experiences as the partner of a blind person.
Even for me, who lost my sight over 20 years ago, Lois's writing brought a deep sense of understanding, not only of her personal life story, but of the significance of my own struggles and triumphs over the years as a disabled woman making my way in an ever-changing world.
A Different Way of Seeing: A Blind Woman's Journey of Living an Ordinary Life in an Extraordinary Way
byLois Strachan is one of those books that, I am sure, will provide valuable insights that are huge in terms of making a positive difference to the reader's perspective on visual impairment and blindness in particular and on disability in general.
It is a book filled with practical explanations, lots of funny moments and amazing insights on how to live life despite facing challenges on a daily basis in the real world.
I was gripped from the start by this author's light-hearted, engaging style of writing. Being visually impaired myself, I could identify with the vast majority of what Lois wrote in this remarkable book.
I believe that it is a book that could be invaluable to those dealing with visual impairment and blindness, be it someone experiencing sight loss themselves, a carer or family member, those who work in the field of disability services or for anyone who has wondered, at some or other time in their lives, how one can function on a daily basis without the sense of sight.
I found the introduction to this book especially poignant, placing us squarely into the picture, so to speak. I at once found myself alongside the author, ready to join her on her fascinating journey.
I also really enjoyed the chapter where Craig, Lois's husband, gave a glimpse into his experiences as the partner of a blind person.
Even for me, who lost my sight over 20 years ago, Lois's writing brought a deep sense of understanding, not only of her personal life story, but of the significance of my own struggles and triumphs over the years as a disabled woman making my way in an ever-changing world.
byLois Strachan is one of those books that, I am sure, will provide valuable insights that are huge in terms of making a positive difference to the reader's perspective on visual impairment and blindness in particular and on disability in general.
It is a book filled with practical explanations, lots of funny moments and amazing insights on how to live life despite facing challenges on a daily basis in the real world.
I was gripped from the start by this author's light-hearted, engaging style of writing. Being visually impaired myself, I could identify with the vast majority of what Lois wrote in this remarkable book.
I believe that it is a book that could be invaluable to those dealing with visual impairment and blindness, be it someone experiencing sight loss themselves, a carer or family member, those who work in the field of disability services or for anyone who has wondered, at some or other time in their lives, how one can function on a daily basis without the sense of sight.
I found the introduction to this book especially poignant, placing us squarely into the picture, so to speak. I at once found myself alongside the author, ready to join her on her fascinating journey.
I also really enjoyed the chapter where Craig, Lois's husband, gave a glimpse into his experiences as the partner of a blind person.
Even for me, who lost my sight over 20 years ago, Lois's writing brought a deep sense of understanding, not only of her personal life story, but of the significance of my own struggles and triumphs over the years as a disabled woman making my way in an ever-changing world.
A Different Way of Seeing: A Blind Woman's Journey of Living an Ordinary Life in an Extraordinary Way
byLois Strachan is one of those books that, I am sure, will provide valuable insights that are huge in terms of making a positive difference to the reader's perspective on visual impairment and blindness in particular and on disability in general.
It is a book filled with practical explanations, lots of funny moments and amazing insights on how to live life despite facing challenges on a daily basis in the real world.
I was gripped from the start by this author's light-hearted, engaging style of writing. Being visually impaired myself, I could identify with the vast majority of what Lois wrote in this remarkable book.
I believe that it is a book that could be invaluable to those dealing with visual impairment and blindness, be it someone experiencing sight loss themselves, a carer or family member, those who work in the field of disability services or for anyone who has wondered, at some or other time in their lives, how one can function on a daily basis without the sense of sight.
I found the introduction to this book especially poignant, placing us squarely into the picture, so to speak. I at once found myself alongside the author, ready to join her on her fascinating journey.
I also really enjoyed the chapter where Craig, Lois's husband, gave a glimpse into his experiences as the partner of a blind person.
Even for me, who lost my sight over 20 years ago, Lois's writing brought a deep sense of understanding, not only of her personal life story, but of the significance of my own struggles and triumphs over the years as a disabled woman making my way in an ever-changing world.
June 1, 2017
I have not met Lois in person -yet-, but the way she wrote was light hearted, really entertaining, and a few times rather emotionally deep.
She takes us on a journey of her everyday challenges from small things such as making coffee, using a guide dog, preparing supper, getting dressed, using electronic devices all the way to amazing international traveling! The stories are written in such a way that you will find it difficult to put down or go to sleep thinking about what can get worse! How she deal with oopsies are humorous that will keep your spirits up and motivated, bringing perspective to options reality throws at you. It opens a window to life where you start self reflecting of what your own capabilities could be and appreciation of the smaller, simpler moments in life.
I highly recommend this easy to book of the remarkable journeys of Lois through her everyday life as a blind person.
She takes us on a journey of her everyday challenges from small things such as making coffee, using a guide dog, preparing supper, getting dressed, using electronic devices all the way to amazing international traveling! The stories are written in such a way that you will find it difficult to put down or go to sleep thinking about what can get worse! How she deal with oopsies are humorous that will keep your spirits up and motivated, bringing perspective to options reality throws at you. It opens a window to life where you start self reflecting of what your own capabilities could be and appreciation of the smaller, simpler moments in life.
I highly recommend this easy to book of the remarkable journeys of Lois through her everyday life as a blind person.
November 27, 2020
Beautifully written
Educational humourous
Absolutely wonderful woman and her story is a must read
Educational humourous
Absolutely wonderful woman and her story is a must read
November 13, 2020
This book was helpful in understanding what the world looks like through the eyes of a sight impaired person. I liked her positive attitude and the fact that she didnt let obstacles get in her way.
March 4, 2021
A thoroughly enjoyable read, enlightening, funny and informative. It teaches one so much and helps one understand a bit better how people live with a disability. The authors positive attitude is so uplifting and is such a good reminder to always try view life from the 'glass half full' approach.
November 25, 2021
A light and refreshing look into what it is like to be blind, and how life may be different but still a fulfilling, meaningful adventure. There are also many insights into how to live with sight challenges, which are very helpful for anyone facing this.
Lois' sense of humor sparkles through each page, and her message inspires not only people with disabilities but anybody facing life challenges. You will feel full of hope and happiness reading these pages.
And if you like dogs, you will love this read.
Lois' sense of humor sparkles through each page, and her message inspires not only people with disabilities but anybody facing life challenges. You will feel full of hope and happiness reading these pages.
And if you like dogs, you will love this read.
August 14, 2018
Lois's humour and story is well worth reading to get an insight into how she has learned to live a vibrant life in spite of having lost her sight. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
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February 13, 2017This is a marvelous book which (pardon the irony) open ones eyes to the dilemma faced by a sight impaired person. I know the author and have always been amazed at her courage in doing whatever she sets her mind to. I think this book serves as an inspiration to many people who use whatever impediment they have as a crutch to escape facing up to life. Lois reports on her experience almost category by category, but this does not make the book boring. On the contrary it is a very interesting insight, and should inspire any reader either to face their own personal challenges or empathize with people facing challenges.
June 25, 2018
A thoroughly enjoyable and refreshing book! Blinded at 21, Lois nevertheless retains a happy and optimistic view of life that cannot but inspire readers. I could almost be tempted to suggest a change to the book title: A Blind Woman's Journey of Living an Extraordinary Life in an Ordinary Way. I chuckled and laughed with her as she overcomes the daily obstacles - this should be a 'must read' book for all recently disabled persons, whether blinded or disadvantaged in other ways. Most enjoyable!
August 20, 2018
Judith Taylor A wonderful book by a wonderful woman, Lois is a very special person with a beautiful way of expressing herself in print. Her humour makes light of her blindness, but she is not a person blind to others. She sees them clearly and is deeply compassionate.
As someone who has bred puppies for Guide Dogs, trained pups and done the Sighted Guide training, reading her book gave me more insight into how truly well she is living her life and sharing her insights.
It is a book truly worth reading (less)
As someone who has bred puppies for Guide Dogs, trained pups and done the Sighted Guide training, reading her book gave me more insight into how truly well she is living her life and sharing her insights.
It is a book truly worth reading (less)
June 12, 2023
Lois Strachan has done a wonderful thing by writing her story of living with blindness. By that, it's not so much a story of going blind, but a sharing of how she lives with not being able to see. It's a practical guide to her daily life; how she does things like find her lost keys, puts on make-up, cooks food, puts on a matching outfit! It's an interesting insight that provides lots of answers to questions that many people have without wanting to ask, and it's valuable support for those who may have recently lost their sight as well, or know someone who has. It's this support structure which this book provides that is it's strength, as it is not really a smooth narrative but a collection of stories, "oh, let me tell you about this!" moments. Recommended for anyone who wants to better understand, literally, a different way of seeing, or for those who have sight loss in their lives.
August 18, 2024
This was an amazing book to read, and I felt like I was in the book as I was reading. This is a book that I highly recommend to all readers but especially those who are non-disabled as it addresses assumptions about living with a disability. One of the things that I would have liked to see more of is more clarity on how the author's diagnosis came about and more importantly what life was like before she became disabled. As a writer who wrote my book from the perspective of living my entire life with a disability, it was a great experience reading about the experience of an author who wrote about their experience acquiring a disability later in life.
March 26, 2022
This book... wow... you can feel the author's heart as they write it. A great read for anyone.
May 16, 2022
A Terrific Read!
Lois Strachan gives great descriptions of her journeys and challenges. This work inspires and makes one think. I will definitely look into her other works.
Lois Strachan gives great descriptions of her journeys and challenges. This work inspires and makes one think. I will definitely look into her other works.
March 29, 2017
This book is interesting and fun. The author explains how she accomplishes day-to-day and exceptional tasks without sight. The treatment is light but informative. The tone is conversational. Reading this book felt like she popped over for a mug of tea and a chat. Since I read a chapter a morning with my coffee, it was actually more like a dozen friendly visits. I would love it if the author could come over for real. Who knows, with her interest in travelling, an adventure to Canada is not beyond the realm of possibility.
I am left inspired by the author's positivity and look forward to hearing about her further adventures.
I am left inspired by the author's positivity and look forward to hearing about her further adventures.
June 3, 2021
I loved getting a peek into the life of someone who does all the things I love to do, only a bit differently. Thank you for sharing your secrets! I am fascinated by the relationships between the visually impaired and their working dogs. This was an enjoyable glimpse into that life and that bond.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews