In Coping With Colorblindness, author Odeda Rosenthal explains in easy-to-understand language how colorblindness occurs, and what types of colorblindness exist. She looks at the history of color vision research; the problems related to colorblindness in women; the pros and cons of tests designed to detect colorblindness; and the unique products available to aid those with this problem. Dr. Robert Phillips includes specific techniques for coping using humor, positive thinking, relaxation techniques, support groups, and professional assistance. Ms. Rosenthal and Dr. Phillips address specific issues for concerned parents of colorblind children.
Odeda Z Katz Rosenthal was raised in Jerusalem and grew up speaking three languages. She later moved with her family to New York City, where she earned a BA from The City College of New York and met her husband Abner Rosenthal.
She earned an MA in Comparative Languages from Hunter College. She taught high school and college, wrote for the East Hampton Star, spent six months in New Zealand, and authored books on colorblindness and the Jewish history of New Zealand.
I read this book because I recently found out that my five-year-old is colorblind. This book was actually a bit of a downer for me. The author hashes over all the worst things that have happened to colorblind people, the challenges, the stigma. I left feeling much worse about colorblindness than I came.
But. The information in this book is unique, and she was an expert on the subject (the book is a bit out of date now). I did come away with a better understanding of what it might be like for my son, which is the main reason I picked up the book.
All in all, I wouldn't say this is a must-read. However, I'd love to see it rewritten and updated with the progress we've made in the 25 years since it was published.
Interesting read, but not a lot of practical advice. Of note, it's interesting that the guy who coined "rainbow" was colorblind, which explains why the term refers to the shape and not the spectacular colors.