Connecting Dots: A Blind Life by Joshua A. Miele is a compelling memoir that takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the life of a scientist who became blind at a young age. The book is not just a recounting of Miele's experiences but a vivid portrayal of his resilience, curiosity, and innovation.

At the age of four, Joshua Miele was blinded and severely burned when a delusional neighbor poured sulfuric acid over his head. This tragic event could have defined his life, but instead, Miele's natural curiosity and problem-solving abilities led him to thrive in a world designed for the sighted. Throughout his life, Miele found inventive ways to succeed and help others do the same, eventually becoming a committed advocate for disability and accessibility.

The memoir is packed with humor, adventure, and insights on life and disability. Miele chronicles his evolution, from grappling with drugs and addiction to playing bass in a rock band, working for NASA, and becoming a guerrilla activist. He also details his role in shaping revolutionary accessible technologies, including screen readers, tactile maps, and audio description. It's also worth mentioning that the narration of the book by Greg Barnett truly added to my listening/reading enjoyment.

Miele's story is not just about overcoming adversity but about embracing his blindness and taking pride in his blind identity. The book introduces readers to an extraordinary cast of characters, from his loving yet eccentric family to his rock-and-roll buddies and brilliant colleagues. It's a riveting romp that interweaves tales of invention and independence with humor, struggle, and achievement. For me, this book is a testament to the normality of blindness and the indelible impact one ordinary blind life can have on the world.

This is the story of Joshua Miele and his life after he is horrifically burned and blinded by an acid attack [by a mentally unstable neighbor] at the age of 4. It is a story of how he adapted to being blind in a seeing world , both the good and bad, and all of his accomplishments in and hour of his school and family life. It is an interesting story that will resonate with many.

This was my first time listening to the narrator Greg D. Barnett, but I hope it is not my last. He does an excellent job and I truly enjoyed his telling of this story.

Thank you to NetGalley, Joshua A. Miele, Wendell Jamieson - journalist and contributor, Hachette Books/Grand Central Publishing, and Hachette Audio/Grand Central Publishing for providing both the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.

This memoir immediately caught my attention. At the young age of four, Miele's life was irrevocably changed when he opened the door to a neighbor who threw acid in his face. The attack left him with severe injuries, including the loss of his eyesight and the need for multiple reconstructive surgeries. Yet, Incredibly, Miele viewed these challenges not as disabilities but as obstacles to be overcome.

Embracing Life's Challenges

I was particularly drawn to Miele’s experiences with his family, hospital time, and school life. His positive attitude towards his blindness and disfigurement was nothing short of inspiring. He approached his circumstances as challenges to be met head-on rather than limitations to be pitied. But along the way, he is aware of much that could be done to make the entire blind community more self-sufficient. At one point in the book, he makes a sad but humorous point by purchasing vice-grips and heading to the sidewalk. I won't spoil the point he was making, but it was an important one.

An Inspirational Journey

Listening to this audiobook was a truly inspirational experience. The author offers an unflinching look at the good, the bad, and the ugly aspects of his life. Each listening session left me eager to return and hear more of his incredible journey. His openness and honesty about his experiences provide valuable insights into the complexities of living with blindness and facial disfigurement. It was hard for me to imagine his dreams and his determination to make them come true.

A Desire for More Depth

While the memoir was profoundly moving, I found myself wishing for more detail on how Miele accomplishes daily tasks as a blind person. His story hints at innovative approaches and tools he has developed or utilized, but it wasn't enough for me. Understanding the practicalities of his life could provide additional inspiration and guidance for others facing similar challenges. Or, of course, people like me, who gain so much from others’ strength.

Final Thoughts

The narrator did a great job of presenting the story.

Don't overlook this fascinating story about an extraordinary man. Joshua Miele’s memoir is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the capacity to rise above even the most daunting challenges. I highly recommend CONNECTING DOTS to anyone seeking a thought-provoking memoir that is hard to forget.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.

This was an amazing book. A true account and life of a man. He is inspiring and had such positive upbringing.
Wonderful and I am happy I listened to his life story. He did not let his inability to see keep him down! AMAZING

This memoir was an incredibly inspiring read. I didn't want to stop listening. The author does a great job reflecting his emotions, thoughts, challenges, and timeline. Going from his early childhood, through rough teenage years, difficulties with schooling, post secondary education with many breaks for experiences, I really felt like I was part of his life. He draws in the reader.

The way he works so passionately to improve accessibility for those who are blind (and others) is so noble and beautiful. As a seeing person, I appreciate the insight into the life of those who are blind. The real struggles, that I take for granted in my own life.

I very much appreciated this book, and how it helps me grow in how I can come alongside those of all walks of life.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.