"In language that often reads like poetry, Miller creates a strong portrait of Sullivan’s accomplishments, as well as her character - volatile, ferociously intelligent, and yearning for love and belonging, just like Helen. . . . Miller’s words reach beyond the historical facts here, encouraging readers to think about the small miracles of connection they can accomplish with words every day. Photos, a chronology, and an extensive bibliography conclude this stirring, fictionalized account."

- Booklist (Starred Review)

"Sarah Miller’s arresting debut novel will deeply satisfy readers who already know about Helen Keller and her teacher, Annie Sullivan, but it will be no less exceptional to those who come to the enthralling story without prior knowledge. . . . [M]arvelously well-researched . . . . In Miller’s affecting, first-person narrative Annie Sullivan describes four transformative weeks full of frustration, pain, sorrow, anger, determination, tenderness and joy. . . . [A] richly textured tapestry of storytelling."

- Cooperative Children’s Book Center

“[D]ebut author Miller nails her audience with this fictionalized account of the first few weeks of Helen and Annie's acquaintance . . . Should young readers bother with fiction in this case, when so much biographical material is available? It’s hard to argue with Miller, as she sticks so close to the documented story while giving readers a good dose of the melodrama that makes it so appealing, a craving for more and the direction to find it.”

- Kirkus

“[A]n accessible narrative for YA readers who are unfamiliar with the story of Helen Keller and the remarkable events that led her to become a celebrity in her day.”

- Kliatt

"Filled with the tension, animosity, and determination that Annie Sullivan felt upon meeting Helen Keller . . . this excellent novel is compelling reading even for those familiar with the Keller/Sullivan experience. Children encountering them for the first time will feel an overwhelming sense of wonder and delight when Annie helps Helen make a communication breakthrough."

- School Library Journal

"Miller brings history to life."

- VOYA