Title: Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller
Author: Sarah Miller
First published July 10, 2007
240 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781416925422 (ISBN10: 1416925422)
Rating: 4.06
Overview
Step back in time to 1887 when Annie Sullivan, a half-blind orphan with a fierce spirit, arrived at Ivy Green. She was hired to teach a child who was deaf, blind, and had an unrelenting temper.
The child was Helen Keller, and Annie was about to embark on a journey that would change both of their lives forever. In Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller, Sarah Miller tells this inspiring story from Annie’s point of view, giving us a glimpse into her past, her tenacity, and her unbreakable bond with the girl who would become her student, her friend, and her legacy.
Through tears of frustration and tears of joy, Annie fought to reach Helen’s mind, even if it meant losing some teeth along the way. Join Annie on this miraculous journey, and witness how one person’s determination and love can overcome even the greatest obstacles.
About the Author
At ten years old, Sarah Miller embarked on writing her inaugural novel. Since then, she has dedicated twenty years to working in libraries and bookstores.
Miller boasts two previous historical novels, Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller, and The Lost Crown. Her nonfiction debut, The Borden Murders: Lizzie Borden and the Trial of the Century, received praise from the New York Times as “a historical version of Law & Order.” She currently resides in Michigan.
Editoral Review
Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller by Sarah Miller is a captivating historical novel that tells the story of the relationship between Annie Sullivan and Helen Keller, two iconic figures in American history. Miller’s work is a young adult novel that is both informative and engaging, providing readers with a glimpse into the life of Helen Keller and the challenges she faced as a deaf and blind person in the late 19th century.
The novel follows Annie Sullivan, a young and inexperienced teacher who is hired to educate Helen Keller. Sullivan is initially met with resistance from Keller, who is used to being indulged and having her way.
However, through patience and determination, Sullivan is able to break through to Keller and teach her to communicate using sign language. The novel presents a vivid portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of both Sullivan and Keller, as they navigate the obstacles presented by Keller’s disabilities.
Miller’s writing style is clear and concise and allows readers to become immersed in the story. The character development is strong, particularly in the case of Annie Sullivan, who transforms from an unsure and inexperienced teacher to a confident and capable mentor.
The pacing of the novel is excellent, with enough tension and conflict to keep readers engaged throughout.
The themes explored in the novel are both timeless and relevant to contemporary issues. Miller highlights the importance of perseverance, empathy, and understanding, themes that are particularly relevant in today’s world.
Additionally, the novel explores the relationship between privilege and disability, a topic that is still a pressing issue today.
While the novel is well-crafted, it does have a few limitations. The portrayal of Helen Keller’s disability at times feels overly sensationalized, and the novel could have benefited from a more nuanced approach to her character.
Additionally, some readers may find the novel too simplistic or too predictable.
Overall, Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller is an excellent historical novel that is both informative and engaging. The novel’s strengths lie in its character development, pacing, and themes, which are both timeless and relevant.
While the novel has some limitations, these do not detract from the overall quality of the work. The book is highly recommended for young adult readers as well as anyone interested in learning more about the relationship between Annie Sullivan and Helen Keller.
Rating: 4/5 stars.
