The State Boys Rebellion by Michael D'Antonio (B1999, 5 volumes): In the early twentieth century, United States health officials used IQ tests to single out "feebleminded" children and force them into institutions where they were denied education, sterilized, drugged, and abused. Under programs that ran into the 1970s, more than 250,000 children were separated from their families, although many of them were merely unwanted orphans, truants, or delinquents. The State Boys Rebellion conveys the shocking truth about America's eugenic era through the experiences of a group of boys held at the Fernald State School in Massachusetts starting in the late 1940s. In the tradition of Erin Brockovich, it recounts the boys' dramatic struggle to demand their rights and secure their freedom. It also covers their horrifying discovery many years later that they had been fed radioactive oatmeal in Cold War experiments - and the subsequent legal battle that ultimately won them a multimillion-dollar settlement. Meticulously researched through school archives, previously sealed papers, and interviews with the surviving State Boys, this deft exposé is a powerful reminder of the terrifying consequences of unchecked power as well as an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Recent braille additions
Here are some of the newest additions to our braille catalog! To learn more about our other braille services click here. For a complete listing of our braille materials, provided at no cost to our clients, check out our catalog by clicking here.
Andy and the Albino Horse series is now available for our littlest patrons and the young at heart!
- Andy & Spirit Go to the Fair by Mary Jean Kelso (B1992): Andy and Spirit's world expands as they grow together and experience things neither would have had the opportunity to do alone. The two become heroes to each other as they meet and accomplish challenges never thought possible before they became a team.
- Andy & Spirit in the Big Rescue by Mary Jean Kelso (B1993): Andy and Spirit are participating in activities at the Nevada State Fair. During a tour through the grounds, they find they must run away from danger. In seeking safety, they become involved in a rescue.
- Andy & Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen by Mary Jean Kelso (B1994): Andy and Spirit Meet the Rodeo Queen who introduces Andy to roping and other rodeo activities. Included are Pee Wee Rodeo participants. He learns about competitions between cowboys and cowgirls displaying their talents. An unfortunate accident mars the evening's rodeo performance.
- Andy & Spirit in Search & Rescue by Mary Jean Kelso (B1995): Andy and Spirit search for an apparently dumped dog that is seen wandering near a ranch. When the dog is rescued, she continues to run away. People wonder why.
- Andy & Spirit Go on a Day Count by Mary Jean Kelso (B1996): Andy and Spirit ride with volunteers who confront challenges while counting and describing wild mustangs. Bands and individual horses are tallied and reported to the Bureau of Land Management. The data is used to help track and control the population to prevent overgrazing and ensure the horses and burros have an adequate water supply.
- Andy & Spirit Ride a Train by Mary Jean Kelso (B1997): Andy and Spirit accompany Tracy, their equine therapy trainer, on a trip through gold country on a historic train. They plan to ride horses on equestrian trails at the end of the line. A breakdown and serious injury interrupts their plans when they are called upon to help with a rescue.
