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Miss Spitfire

Reaching Helen Keller

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About The Book

Annie Sullivan was little more than a half-blind orphan with a fiery tongue when she arrived at Ivy Green in 1887. Desperate for work, she'd taken on a seemingly impossible job -- teaching a child who was deaf, blind, and as ferocious as any wild animal. But Helen Keller needed more than a teacher. She needed someone daring enough to work a miracle. And if anyone was a match for Helen, it was the girl they used to call Miss Spitfire.

For Annie, reaching Helen's mind meant losing teeth as raging fists flew. It meant standing up when everyone else had given up. It meant shedding tears at the frustrations and at the triumphs. By telling this inspiring story from Annie Sullivan's point of view, Sarah Miller's debut novel brings an amazing figure to sharp new life. Annie's past, her brazen determination, and her connection to the girl who would call her Teacher have never been clearer.

About The Author

photograph courtesy of the author

Sarah Miller began writing her first novel at 10 years old, and has spent half her life working in libraries and bookstores. She is the author of Miss Spitfire: Reaching Helen Keller, which was named an ALA Best Book for Young Adults and nominated for numerous state award lists. Sarah lives in Michigan with her family. Visit her online at sarahmillerbooks.com.

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Awards and Honors

  • Booklist Editors' Choice
  • South Carolina Picture Book Award Nominee
  • ALA Best Books For Young Adults
  • William Allen White Children's Book Award Reading List (KS)
  • Emphasis on Reading Book Award (AL)
  • Virginia Readers' Choice Award List
  • Prairie Pasque Award Nominee (SD)
  • Jefferson Cup Award Honor Title (VA)

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More books from this author: Sarah Miller