She Persisted: Helen Keller
#3 of 40 in She Persisted Series
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on Goodreads (100)
What’s inside...
In 'She Persisted: Helen Keller,' author Courtney Sheinmel presents the inspiring life story of Helen Keller, a woman who faced incredible challenges due to her disabilities but, with the help of her dedicated teacher, learned to communicate and became a powerful advocate for people with disabilities around the world. Inspired by the #1 New York Times bestseller 'She Persisted' by Chelsea Clinton and Alexandra Boiger, this chapter book series celebrates women who stood up, spoke up and rose up against the odds, including Helen Keller. Despite losing her sight and hearing after a childhood illness, Keller did not let that stop her from learning to read, speak, and make a difference. She was the first person who was both deaf and blind to graduate from college, and she continued to write books and articles, speak in public, and advocate for the rights she believed everyone should have, inspiring others to do the same.
Character compass
Helen Keller
Anne Sullivan
Discussion points
What challenges did Helen Keller face and how did she overcome them?
Why do you think communication was so important for Helen Keller?
How did Helen's teacher, Anne Sullivan, help her succeed?
What qualities do you admire most in Helen Keller?
How can we apply Helen's perseverance and determination in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about Helen's journey and relate them to any personal experiences they might have had with overcoming difficulties.
Highlight the significance of empathy and understanding by discussing the relationship between Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan.
Discuss the various forms of communication and how important they are in connecting with others.
Praise your child's insights and relate them to broader life lessons of resilience and courage.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The story illustrates Helen Keller's incredible determination despite her disabilities, showcasing her journey to communicate and learn.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of persistence in overcoming personal challenges, whether it’s learning a new skill or facing academic hurdles.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: As readers see the world through Helen Keller’s experiences, they gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those with disabilities.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more compassionate and supportive towards friends and peers who may have different needs or abilities.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Helen's courage in dealing with her disabilities and her determination to communicate effectively is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Kids can take inspiration from Helen’s bravery and apply it to facing their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a sports team or speaking in front of the class.
Example Lesson: The importance of communication
Explanation: The book highlights Helen Keller's struggle and success in learning to communicate, which ultimately opened up her world.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the power of communication in expressing thoughts and feelings, and in learning from others.
Example Lesson: Self reliance
Explanation: Despite her disabilities, Helen learned to read, write, and speak, demonstrating her self-reliance.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to develop independence and strive to achieve their personal goals through self-education and determination.