It's a good story, especially helping children understand some of the challenges that disability can bring. My concern is that it is dated (original copyright is 1957) and may be giving inaccurate information. Tackles concepts such as reconciliation and forgiveness, self-sufficiency, and in a small way, humility (although it is not identified as such).

One of the most memorable books of my childhood. At the outset, young Jimmy loses his sight through a terrible mishap with a firecracker. In this story, he learns to cope with his disability, learns Braille, and gains a seeing- eye dog who becomes his friend and companion. His relationship with his dog forms the core of the book. Through this book I learned sensitivity towards those differently - abled, as well as to appreciate the close and lasting bond we can form with dogs. As an adult, I found out by chance that this book had also been a favorite of my spouse. I am so glad to find that this book is still in print! ( )

After Jimmy is blinded in an accident with a firecracker, he has to relearn all the things he used to know. With the help of a determined therapist, he learns to read Braille and to use a cane. Then he's given the chance to have a guide dog. Learning to work with Leader is not easy, but Jimmy tries harder than he ever has before.

The memory of this book has stayed with me thorughall of the years since I read it at age 10. I was so excited to find a copy of the same edition at a yard sale. Perhaps this was the origin of my facination with the impact animals can have on people. KAR ( )