Helen Keller is the author of this autobiography wherein she recounts her early life up to her college education, and the challenges she must face as a girl who is both deaf and blind. Struck down by illness at a very young age, Keller defies death but is rendered blind and deaf. Her life becomes very dark and depressing as she finds herself isolated and cut off from the ability to communicate with other people.

In desperation, her parents hire a teacher for her, Miss Sullivan, whose steadfastness and loyalty to Keller changes the young girl’s life forever. With the patient and loving Miss Sullivan at her side, Keller’s world opens up in new and profound ways. Education becomes the primary form in which her world expands, and as she grows up, she learns to balance her strength of person with the depression and frustration that she contends with throughout her young life.

With Miss Sullivan’s help and the support of her family and friends, Keller succeeds beyond her wildest dreams, learning to read, speak, and attend college. Her determination not to weaken in the face of her condition and to push beyond her supposed limitations are an inspiring example to all.