Whale Eyes: A Memoir About Seeing and Being Seen

"A sincere reflection on childhood experiences of growing up in a world not built with him in mind."—Publishers Weekly, starred review

"A superb memoir that champions empathy and understanding on every level."—BookPage, starred review

"Lively, interactive...truly eye-opening."—Booklist, starred review

"Game-changing curriculum add for any teacher."—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review

From Emmy Award–winning documentary filmmaker James Robinson comes a breathtaking illustrated memoir for middle-grade readers (and adults, too)—inspired by the viral, Emmy-nominated short film Whale Eyes.

Told through an experimental mix of intimate anecdotes and interactive visuals, this book immerses readers in James’s point of view, allowing them to see the world through his disabling eye conditions.

Readers will get lost as they chase words. They’ll stare into this book while taking a vision test. They’ll hold it upside down as they practice “pretend-reading”…and they’ll follow an unlikely trail toward discovering the power of words.

With poignant illustrations by Eisner Award–nominated artist Brian Rea, James’s story equips readers of all ages with the tools to confront their discomfort with disability and turn confused, blank stares into powerful connections.