My Story

 

     My Story, is the biography written by Helen Keller. Originally written and published in 1903 when Helen was in college. This book depicts the actual events that occurred to Helen Keller after a terrible illness "brain fever" struck her. It was like any normal February day when little Helen Keller was struck with a sickness that caused her to go blind and deaf. Helen's parents struggle with how to handle her so they bring in outside help. A specialist by the name of Anne Sullivan. Miss. Sullivan helps Helen find her way back to her family by treating her as if she was a normal child. Helen was not allowed to misbehave just because of her disability. Miss. Sullivan assured Helen's parents that she was somewhat aware of her surroundings and could be taught to communicate. Through multiple sessions with Helen, Miss. Sullivan finally made a breakthrough and was able to communicate with Helen. This biography is a perfect example of not giving up, and to always push harder. The story of Helen Keller's struggles and triumphs is motivating to any reader.

 

     The biography of Helen Keller is an exceptional story to allow students to read. After reading this book I would ask my students the following:

 

• What do you think motivated Miss. Sullivan to keep pushing Helen?
• How do you think it made Helen feel to be pushed?
• Does anyone have any suggestions on what they would have done to help Helen?

     One activity that I would have my students do is to put their feet in Helen's shoes for one afternoon. With permission from parents I would have my students pair up with a partner and for half of the afternoon I would place a blindfold on one of them. The partner with sight would have help their "blind" partner navigate around the room. This activity would teach them the some of the struggle that Helen went through before she met Miss. Sullivan. Another activity I would do, is have my students draw a picture of their favorite part of the book.

 

     I actually had the pleasure of visiting Helen Keller's home in Tuscumbia, Alabama a little over a year ago. They hold plays there that tells the story of her life. The atmosphere there was overwhelming, it brought tears to my eyes. Miss. Sullivan taught Helen that she could do whatever she wanted and encouraged her to do so. Helen Keller graduated from college 1904. During her lifetime she made many accomplishments and is a positive role model for anyone.

 

References

Keller, Helen. (2011). My Story. A. J. Cornell Publications.