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41 pages 1 hour read

The Miracle Worker

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1959

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Book Brief

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William Gibson

The Miracle Worker

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1959
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Alabama • 1880s

Publication Year

1959

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

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Super Short Summary

The Miracle Worker by William Gibson follows Helen Keller, a young girl from Alabama who is blind and deaf, as her determined teacher, Anne Sullivan, helps her discover the power of language. Initially resistant and spoiled, Helen's breakthrough moment comes after much struggle, highlighting the transformative impact of perseverance and love.

Inspirational

Challenging

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

35,604 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

William Gibson's The Miracle Worker is praised for its compelling portrayal of Helen Keller's early life and her relationship with Anne Sullivan. Critics highlight the intense, emotional drama and strong character development, though some find moments overly sentimental. Overall, it is lauded for its inspirational narrative and historical significance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Miracle Worker?

Readers who enjoy emotionally gripping stories of perseverance and human connection will be captivated by The Miracle Worker by William Gibson. Fans of Helen Keller's autobiography The Story of My Life or titles like Wonder by R.J. Palacio will appreciate this compelling dramatization of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan's inspiring journey.

4.4

35,604 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Annie Sullivan

A determined and headstrong young teacher from Boston who has recently graduated from the Perkins School for the Blind. With her personal background as someone who was once blind, she is committed to teaching Helen Keller language skills.

A six-and-a-half-year-old girl who is deaf and blind, known for her curiosity and strong will. She is a pivotal figure in the story as her learning journey with Annie Sullivan unfolds.

Helen's mother and the younger wife of Captain Keller, who remains hopeful about Annie's teaching efforts. She is supportive and plays a key role in bringing Annie into the family to help Helen.

Helen's father, a proud Southern newspaper publisher who often appears impatient but shows a compassionate side. He struggles with the challenges related to Helen's disabilities.

The indolent but evolving young man who is Captain Keller's son from his first marriage. Initially distant from Helen and Kate, he grows to reconcile with his family dynamics throughout the play.

Captain Keller’s sister and a regular presence at Ivy Green, known for advocating medical attention for Helen. She tends to indulge Helen.

A servant in the Keller household, who helps care for the family, particularly when Helen acts out. She is characterized by her tendency to spoil Helen with treats.

Annie Sullivan’s mentor from her time at the Perkins School for the Blind, who plays a foundational role in her backstory and motivates her to persist in her efforts with Helen.

Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Alabama • 1880s

Publication Year

1959

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

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