The Kernel Books
Copyright © 1990, 2007, by the National Federation of the Blind.
Welcome to the Kernel Book series page. There are currently seventeen Kernel
Books which tell the stories of blind men and women. When the editor, Dr.
Kenneth Jernigan was asked why he chose the name Kernel Book he said:
"... In the first place, I suppose it has to do with whim. I thought the
title was catchy, so I used it. But there is something more. We wanted to go
to the very heart of blindness, trying to show our readers what it's really
like - and, for that matter, what it isn't like."
"If you are blind, what do you think and how do you look at things, (not
how do you look at them physically, but your point of view and perspective)?
How about dating and marriage? What about children, recreation, work and
relations with others?" In short, how do blind people live and feel on a
daily basis? What we are trying to do is to cut through the sentimentality
and misconceptions to the very 'kernel' of the subject."
Here are the books currently available on-line.
Other Kernel Books
- Kenneth Jernigan: The
Master, The Mission, The Movement.
This volume tells of the convergence of a master teacher and the organized
blind movement-of Dr. Kenneth Jernigan and the National Federation of the
Blind, an excellent collection of just some of Dr. Jernigan's writings.
-
If Blindness Comes.
If you are blind or have a family member or friend who is blind, this book is
for you. If you are a teacher, a social worker, a counselor, a librarian, or
a minister, this book is for you. This book is a manual and a "how
to" guide - not only for the blind but also for those losing sight and
for the members of their families.
The simple statement that it is respectable to be blind is our thesis, and
that thesis (though undramatic) is revolutionary. It points the way to new
hope and unexpected opportunity for those who are blind or are losing their
sight. So read on, and contact
the National Federation of the
Blind
if you need our help.
-
The World Under My Fingers.
In the case of people whose vision is so poor as to make it difficult or
impossible to read regular print for extended periods of time and to write
accurately and legibly, it is extremely useful to learn to read and write
using
Braille.
When learned early and taught by a knowledgeable teacher, Braille is an
invaluable tool for those who cannot use print comfortably for extended
periods of time or in all kinds of light.
Most of the these stories and articles are firsthand accounts of people who
have depended on Braille all their lives or who were denied Braille
instruction and have paid the price of that neglect for years. If you are
considering whether or not to ask that your child be taught Braille, we invite
you to consider the experience and views of these competent adults.
-
Care and Feeding of the Long White Cane.
If you've been told or believe the myth that blind people can't teach cane
travel then think again. This book describes the experiences and observations
of the author over many years of using the long white cane. No, it can't
give you specific instructions on how to use the cane in every situation, none
the less it is an excellent reference source.
-
Walking Alone And Marching Together: A History Of
The Organized Blind Movement In The United States 1940-1990, by Floyd
Matson.
A thorough review of blindness throughout history with special emphasis on the
organized blind movement which began in 1940 and has been going strong ever
since. An excellent resource to study the differences between an organization
started BY the blind as opposed to an organization started by the sighted
using the blind.
Send your questions or comments
Copyright © 1992, 2005, all rights reserved.
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