Six-year-old Helen Keller was like a wild bird in a cage. Her mind was bright. Her body was strong. But she could not communicate with anyone. She was blind and deaf.

Then one wonderful day Anne Sullivan came to stay. She made signs in Helen's hand. She taught her words. "I was born again," said Helen.

Helen and "Teacher" spent many happy hours riding, swimming—and learning. Helen went on to study at Radcliffe College. She even learned to speak!

After graduation Helen turned to writing and lecturing. With Teacher at her side, Helen worked to get special schools and libraries for the blind and deaf. "I must teach people what you taught me," Helen told Anne, "that children must not be different because they are blind and deaf. They can learn to work and be happy."

Helen herself is full of courage and laughter in this rich, poignant portrait by the Graffs, authors of Squanto.

From the dust jacket