Helen’s Big World (a Big Words Biography): The Life of Helen Keller

A heartwarming portrait of an unforgettable woman by the critically acclaimed author of Abe’s Honest Words and Martin’s Big Words.

This picture book biography is an excellent and accessible introduction for young readers to learn about one of the world’s most influential luminaries. With her signature style of prose laced with stirring quotes, Doreen Rappaport brings to life Helen Keller’s poignant narrative. Acclaimed illustrator Matt Tavares beautifully captures the dynamism and verve of Helen Keller’s life and legacy, making Helen’s Big World an unforgettable portrait of a woman whose vision for innovation and progress changed America--and the world--forever.

Doreen Rappaport’s nonfiction and historical fiction books have been acclaimed for their meticulous research and varied literary styles. She is the recipient of the Washington Post-Children’s Book Guild lifetime achievement award for the writing of nonfiction. Among her many award-winning biographies are Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., illustrated by Bryan Collier, a Caldecott Honor Book, Coretta Scott King Honor Book, Orbis Pictus Honor Book, and a Jane Addams Children’s Book Award winner; Abe’s Honest Words: The Life of Abraham Lincoln, illustrated by Kadir Nelson, a CCBC Best Book of the Year and an IRA Teacher’s Choice; and Jack’s Path of Courage: The Life of John F. Kennedy, illustrated by Matt Tavares.She lives and writes in upstate New York. Visit her at www.doreenrappaport.com.

Matt Tavares (www.matttavares.com) is the illustrator of several books, including ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, Jack and the Beanstalk, written by E. Nesbit, The Gingerbread Pirates, written by Kristin Kladstrup, and Jack’s Path of Courage: The Life of John F. Kennedy, written by Doreen Rappaport. His books have won several awards, including four Parents’ Choice Gold Awards, a Parents’ Choice Silver Honor, six Oppenheim Gold Seal Awards, and an Orbis Pictus Honor. His illustrations have been exhibited at the Museum of American Illustration at the Society of Illustrators, and at the Brandywine River Museum. Matt lives in Maine with his wife and two daughters.