If you are reading this article, you are capable of experiencing our world through sight. However, not everyone can. Having a visual disability requires a different approach to learning. The book featured in today's article provides a wonderful experience for readers of any capability.
The Black Book of Colors, by Menena Cottin, provides examples of the different colors present in our world without using those colors as a visual. As titled, the book is completely black to simulate the main character's blindness. Its story, written in white letters and Braille, describes how he perceives color.
These choices invite the reader to explore with their other senses. For example, there are food-based descriptions for how colors could taste and physical sensations associated with touch. Raised illustrations invite readers to feel the shapes of colors, from the abundance of grass to the flowing comfort of a mother's hair. It's an excellent way to learn about colors without sight.
We have a few other books available in Braille, and the State Library of Louisiana offers further resources with the Talking Books and Braille Library. For further information on how to request these books, please contact your local library branch or reference librarian.
Thank you for reading!
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