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Blind Not Broken: Your guide to turning loss and grief into happiness
Part memoir and part self-help guide, Blind Not Broken follows Lucy Edwards' sight loss journey to becoming a thriving career woman
At only 17, Lucy's world went to black. Due to a rare condition called incontinentia pigmenti, Lucy lost her eyesight in an instant and suddenly had to learn how to navigate her life all over again. While incredibly difficult and traumatic, this also marked the beginning of Lucy's extraordinary journey to finding self-acceptance and happiness.
Lucy's motto in life is that she is 'blind, not broken'. In her book, she shows how anyone can adopt this same motto by demonstrating how the challenges we face in life need not break us but can instead inspire us to lead full, rich lives.
Each chapter contains inspirational tips, practical motivation and coping mechanisms, which can be applied to people of every ability who are grieving a loss or experiencing a sudden change. This book offers a unique take on empowerment, happiness, strength, triumph over adversity and how we view beauty in the world.
At only 17, Lucy's world went to black. Due to a rare condition called incontinentia pigmenti, Lucy lost her eyesight in an instant and suddenly had to learn how to navigate her life all over again. While incredibly difficult and traumatic, this also marked the beginning of Lucy's extraordinary journey to finding self-acceptance and happiness.
Lucy's motto in life is that she is 'blind, not broken'. In her book, she shows how anyone can adopt this same motto by demonstrating how the challenges we face in life need not break us but can instead inspire us to lead full, rich lives.
Each chapter contains inspirational tips, practical motivation and coping mechanisms, which can be applied to people of every ability who are grieving a loss or experiencing a sudden change. This book offers a unique take on empowerment, happiness, strength, triumph over adversity and how we view beauty in the world.
159 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2024
12 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
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June 6, 2024I don't rate biographies and memoirs.
I know of Lucy Edwards mainly from the Pantene adverts in the UK and thinking she had amazing hair. So when I saw this nook in my library I was immediately intrigued. Lucy lost her sight at a young age to a rare genetic condition, and in Blind Not Broken she gently takes the reader by the hand as she journeys through her own grief and healing process, offering help along the way. It was a moving process reading this. Lucy's story is one I obviously have no experience with, yet she tells these very raw moments with such kindness and frankness that I couldn't help but warm to her as a person. I do think overall this wasn't really aimed at me, but the experience wasn't entirely without it's benefits as I saw a low of insight into what it's like to live as a blind person within the UK.
I know of Lucy Edwards mainly from the Pantene adverts in the UK and thinking she had amazing hair. So when I saw this nook in my library I was immediately intrigued. Lucy lost her sight at a young age to a rare genetic condition, and in Blind Not Broken she gently takes the reader by the hand as she journeys through her own grief and healing process, offering help along the way. It was a moving process reading this. Lucy's story is one I obviously have no experience with, yet she tells these very raw moments with such kindness and frankness that I couldn't help but warm to her as a person. I do think overall this wasn't really aimed at me, but the experience wasn't entirely without it's benefits as I saw a low of insight into what it's like to live as a blind person within the UK.
Want to read
February 23, 2025Cant wait to get to this...As someone who has a physical disability, I love reading books like this makes me feel somewhat less alone and thankful for the small things no matter how unfair or heavy life gets..
March 25, 2024
Lucy Edwards shares her journey after she became blind, and gives some excellent self-help tips to find your way in the midst of your grief. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
April 16, 2024
I am not blind ( yet) but could really relate to this book. I felt a wide range of emotions. I was heartbroken, upset, and angry!
I did find the book triggering at times as I’ve been through the grieving stage with my eyesight. Lucy wrote in a way that was really personal.
I think more people need to read books like this one! There are still barriers that need to be broken. I was very angry when I read how disabled people are shown in films and how society tells you that a disabled person has to fall in love with another disabled person..
Lucy has been very brave and honest in her book! I would recommend this to my friends and family.
I follow Lucy on social media, her videos are brilliant.
I did find the book triggering at times as I’ve been through the grieving stage with my eyesight. Lucy wrote in a way that was really personal.
I think more people need to read books like this one! There are still barriers that need to be broken. I was very angry when I read how disabled people are shown in films and how society tells you that a disabled person has to fall in love with another disabled person..
Lucy has been very brave and honest in her book! I would recommend this to my friends and family.
I follow Lucy on social media, her videos are brilliant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2025
Wow, wow, wow....
Well I've been in a bit of a book slump recently and was finding many books averaging 3ish stars and so I had a look at Netgalley today and I have to say this book definitely found me at the most perfect time!!!
This was absolutely an amazing listen and although Lucy's journey is for her about becoming blind I think the way she has written this is absolutely truly admirable, authentic and with great understanding of how people in general feel going through any change in their lives that affects how they live.
I had never heard of this wonderful woman before, and I now am aware that she is a disability activist, which explains why and how she has written so well. Not only from her own life experience, but it seems she has done a lot of work and obviously did research into her family's viewpoints. Documented her journey from the beginning albeit I appreciate we get a shortened version, the most important parts but to go into detail about grief and loss is something that so many people do not understand and don't take time to try to either. When anyone's life changes, it isn't just the physical aspect people deal with. There is so much more to it, and this audiobook sums it all up perfectly.
I absolutely adored all the refrances made to the different inventions made over the years etc and how these things lead on to other things ie audiobooks for blind people whilst many others may simply enjoy them they also help other disabilities and I honestly think this is one of the best books I have listened to this year.
Having studied grief myself and having a vast knowledge of the stages, it was absolutely wonderful to hear it in the way it was written into this book it all flowed so well. Part memoir, part self help, I can't recommend this highly enough for anyone who has any disability themselves or within their close circles it is absolutely fantastic! This may help others understand how and why people react in certain ways at certain times and how we can all help each other.
Many people may be able to relate to this even from the perspective of trauma, i.e., PTSD etc not only physical disabilities because of how well it is written, so I'd say definitely give this a go.
This was narrated by Lucy herself, which just brought that edge of authentication and really was a beautiful listen. It was done in one day, with lots of tears, understanding, and inspiration! I couldn't imagine anyone else having done this audiobook!
With so much gratitude and appreciation to Netgalley, Hachette UK Audio 🙏🏼
Easy 5⭐️
Well I've been in a bit of a book slump recently and was finding many books averaging 3ish stars and so I had a look at Netgalley today and I have to say this book definitely found me at the most perfect time!!!
This was absolutely an amazing listen and although Lucy's journey is for her about becoming blind I think the way she has written this is absolutely truly admirable, authentic and with great understanding of how people in general feel going through any change in their lives that affects how they live.
I had never heard of this wonderful woman before, and I now am aware that she is a disability activist, which explains why and how she has written so well. Not only from her own life experience, but it seems she has done a lot of work and obviously did research into her family's viewpoints. Documented her journey from the beginning albeit I appreciate we get a shortened version, the most important parts but to go into detail about grief and loss is something that so many people do not understand and don't take time to try to either. When anyone's life changes, it isn't just the physical aspect people deal with. There is so much more to it, and this audiobook sums it all up perfectly.
I absolutely adored all the refrances made to the different inventions made over the years etc and how these things lead on to other things ie audiobooks for blind people whilst many others may simply enjoy them they also help other disabilities and I honestly think this is one of the best books I have listened to this year.
Having studied grief myself and having a vast knowledge of the stages, it was absolutely wonderful to hear it in the way it was written into this book it all flowed so well. Part memoir, part self help, I can't recommend this highly enough for anyone who has any disability themselves or within their close circles it is absolutely fantastic! This may help others understand how and why people react in certain ways at certain times and how we can all help each other.
Many people may be able to relate to this even from the perspective of trauma, i.e., PTSD etc not only physical disabilities because of how well it is written, so I'd say definitely give this a go.
This was narrated by Lucy herself, which just brought that edge of authentication and really was a beautiful listen. It was done in one day, with lots of tears, understanding, and inspiration! I couldn't imagine anyone else having done this audiobook!
With so much gratitude and appreciation to Netgalley, Hachette UK Audio 🙏🏼
Easy 5⭐️
February 23, 2025
It has been hard to be different in a society that wants everyone to be the same.
Id like to thank NetGalley, Hatchett UK Audio, and Lucy Edwards for giving me the chance to read this book.
I honestly don’t know how to review this book. This book follows Lucy as she loses her sight as a child and how she handles it. She goes through a lot of her hardships and analyses them with the maturity and the understanding of the world she has now. (Also she acknowledges the privileges she has, like her support system, etc.) In the beginning the author says this is a book about grief, and she touched on that throughout the book, this made me want to recommend it to a few people I know could learn a lot from this book.
I loved reading how she thinks and lives, her way of thinking and her resolve to fight for accessibility, representation, and to affect change is really incredible. I’ll await to read more of her, whether if it’s in a book or in the format of her social media content.
This book was narrated beautifully and it was thoroughly easy to follow. I always love books that are narrated by the author a lot more, and I was happy this was the case here.
Id like to thank NetGalley, Hatchett UK Audio, and Lucy Edwards for giving me the chance to read this book.
I honestly don’t know how to review this book. This book follows Lucy as she loses her sight as a child and how she handles it. She goes through a lot of her hardships and analyses them with the maturity and the understanding of the world she has now. (Also she acknowledges the privileges she has, like her support system, etc.) In the beginning the author says this is a book about grief, and she touched on that throughout the book, this made me want to recommend it to a few people I know could learn a lot from this book.
I loved reading how she thinks and lives, her way of thinking and her resolve to fight for accessibility, representation, and to affect change is really incredible. I’ll await to read more of her, whether if it’s in a book or in the format of her social media content.
This book was narrated beautifully and it was thoroughly easy to follow. I always love books that are narrated by the author a lot more, and I was happy this was the case here.
June 3, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free audiobook copy in exchange for an honest review.
The author herself narrates the audiobook, which takes you on her journey through grieving her vision loss. However, this does not mean it’s only suitable for the blind or their loved ones. After each chapter, there are exercises which are useful to everyone in my opinion, even if you’re not currently in the process of grief, they can help to reflect and be mindful.
The narration itself was beautifully done and it felt like a friend was telling you a story, which I really enjoyed.
The author herself narrates the audiobook, which takes you on her journey through grieving her vision loss. However, this does not mean it’s only suitable for the blind or their loved ones. After each chapter, there are exercises which are useful to everyone in my opinion, even if you’re not currently in the process of grief, they can help to reflect and be mindful.
The narration itself was beautifully done and it felt like a friend was telling you a story, which I really enjoyed.
February 7, 2025
Before reading Lucy Edwards' book, I wasn't familiar with her, but after discovering her story on NetGalley, I was immediately intrigued. As I researched more, I grew to admire Lucy for her vibrant personality, her red hair, and her inspiring presence on TikTok. As someone with a degenerative eye condition that could potentially affect my vision, I found a deep connection in Lucy's perspective on living with a visual disability. She truly understands the need to improvise when faced with challenges others might find simple.
Lucy lost her sight in her teens due to a rare genetic condition called Incontinentia Pigmenti. In her book, she gently guides readers through her personal journey of grief, healing, and the emotional struggles that come with blindness. Although our experiences differ, Lucy's raw and compassionate storytelling made me feel deeply connected to her and offered valuable insights into life as a blind person.
This book arrived at the perfect time for me, especially during a reading slump. Lucy's journey, while focused on blindness, resonates with anyone navigating life changes. As a disability activist, she not only shares her personal story but also incorporates research and highlights the significant impact of societal changes on one's life. She addresses emotional aspects of grief and loss, which are often overlooked, showing that adapting to change involves more than just physical adjustments.
I also appreciated the references to innovations like audiobooks, which benefit both blind people and those with other disabilities. The book beautifully blends memoir and self-help, emphasizing the importance of accepting grief and navigating life’s challenges. It’s a must-read for anyone with a disability or those supporting someone who does, offering profound insights into how we all react to change and how we can help one another.
The audiobook, narrated by Lucy herself, added an extra layer of authenticity and emotion, making it one of my favorite listens this year. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, especially to those who can relate to trauma or disability.
A definite 5-star read for me.
#BlindNotBroken #NetGalley
Lucy lost her sight in her teens due to a rare genetic condition called Incontinentia Pigmenti. In her book, she gently guides readers through her personal journey of grief, healing, and the emotional struggles that come with blindness. Although our experiences differ, Lucy's raw and compassionate storytelling made me feel deeply connected to her and offered valuable insights into life as a blind person.
This book arrived at the perfect time for me, especially during a reading slump. Lucy's journey, while focused on blindness, resonates with anyone navigating life changes. As a disability activist, she not only shares her personal story but also incorporates research and highlights the significant impact of societal changes on one's life. She addresses emotional aspects of grief and loss, which are often overlooked, showing that adapting to change involves more than just physical adjustments.
I also appreciated the references to innovations like audiobooks, which benefit both blind people and those with other disabilities. The book beautifully blends memoir and self-help, emphasizing the importance of accepting grief and navigating life’s challenges. It’s a must-read for anyone with a disability or those supporting someone who does, offering profound insights into how we all react to change and how we can help one another.
The audiobook, narrated by Lucy herself, added an extra layer of authenticity and emotion, making it one of my favorite listens this year. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, especially to those who can relate to trauma or disability.
A definite 5-star read for me.
#BlindNotBroken #NetGalley
June 27, 2024
This is an excellent reminder that just because someone has a disability, they can still be self-centered, vain, shallow, entitled, and generally embody everything wrong with online influencer culture.
I hate making light of something that may in some way be helpful for someone out there…but damn, this one is painful. There aren’t many people who should write a memoir at age 27. Including this lady. Her complete and total unawareness of her own absolutely staggering amount of privilege makes it incredibly difficult to find even the smallest amount of empathy (I knew sympathy was not a realistic expectation after the first page) for what any non-psychopath would describe as the textbook example of an unfortunate event - going blind at age 17. However, when the top 10 reasons she repeatedly cites her “trauma” all involve being unable to see and select clothing, makeup, and hair products, you start to wonder if this is some sort of parody. It does not appear to be, unfortunately.
There is, surprisingly, some mildly interesting information about life as a disabled person in the ADA-free (BDA?) UK, which could have been expanded upon for a much more interesting book. However, the author’s cheerful ignorance of and disinterest in anything related to public policy or people other than herself in general quickly swings the conversation back to the important work of promoting Pantene shampoo.
The audio version is particularly painful as it is read by the author in what I assume to be her “influencer” voice - that weird, breathy, giggly, flirty tone that seems to transcend language in online advertising for dubious nutritional supplements and sweatshop produced clothing. Assuming that the voices in the especially awkward segment in which she harangues her family into telling her how wonderful she is actually belong to her relatives, it seems unlikely that this is just how she talks.
I really can’t not recommend this highly enough - but hey, it fulfilled my reading challenge prompt to read a book by someone I know nothing about! So thanks, NetGalley!
I hate making light of something that may in some way be helpful for someone out there…but damn, this one is painful. There aren’t many people who should write a memoir at age 27. Including this lady. Her complete and total unawareness of her own absolutely staggering amount of privilege makes it incredibly difficult to find even the smallest amount of empathy (I knew sympathy was not a realistic expectation after the first page) for what any non-psychopath would describe as the textbook example of an unfortunate event - going blind at age 17. However, when the top 10 reasons she repeatedly cites her “trauma” all involve being unable to see and select clothing, makeup, and hair products, you start to wonder if this is some sort of parody. It does not appear to be, unfortunately.
There is, surprisingly, some mildly interesting information about life as a disabled person in the ADA-free (BDA?) UK, which could have been expanded upon for a much more interesting book. However, the author’s cheerful ignorance of and disinterest in anything related to public policy or people other than herself in general quickly swings the conversation back to the important work of promoting Pantene shampoo.
The audio version is particularly painful as it is read by the author in what I assume to be her “influencer” voice - that weird, breathy, giggly, flirty tone that seems to transcend language in online advertising for dubious nutritional supplements and sweatshop produced clothing. Assuming that the voices in the especially awkward segment in which she harangues her family into telling her how wonderful she is actually belong to her relatives, it seems unlikely that this is just how she talks.
I really can’t not recommend this highly enough - but hey, it fulfilled my reading challenge prompt to read a book by someone I know nothing about! So thanks, NetGalley!
July 14, 2024
What happens when your life turns pitch dark when you are just 17? This is the true story of BBC broadcaster, TikTok sensation, and disability activist Lucy Edwards.
This is a special book for me. Because it is my first audiobook that I listened to with full attention and enjoyed it, even though the life of Lucy was sad at times, there was hope and happiness thriving in all corners.
Lucy lost her visual sense due to a rare eye condition called incontinentia pigmenti. Even after surgery to restore her vision, it turned out to be a complete failure. One can only empathise with Lucy’s trauma and darkened, bleak future.
However, with supportive family—father, mother, and sister—and her childhood friend and current husband, she was constantly encouraged to do what she most desired.
This book is narrated by Lucy herself, with all her emotions kept intact without getting overwhelmed by revisiting her tough journey through this book.
Rather, the book, through Lucy’s words, serves as a self-help guide and a motivating manual for all who are facing challenges, whether they are physical, mental, emotional, or financial, to get ahead in life with a positive attitude.
Blind Not Broken has 10 chapters, including a prologue, and each one has tips on how to overcome these difficult times with a disability that is obstructing one’s progress through coping mechanisms and willpower.
In addition, there are personal interviews with Lucy’s parents, family, and friends, where they share about her childhood days and how they were supportive of Lucy during her hard times.
Overall, my view on audiobooks is not as sceptical as I was earlier. However, I am sticking to non-fiction audiobooks currently, as I believe fiction is still a reading/visual medium.
I recommend this short memoir if you are in need of motivation and guidance.
This is a special book for me. Because it is my first audiobook that I listened to with full attention and enjoyed it, even though the life of Lucy was sad at times, there was hope and happiness thriving in all corners.
Lucy lost her visual sense due to a rare eye condition called incontinentia pigmenti. Even after surgery to restore her vision, it turned out to be a complete failure. One can only empathise with Lucy’s trauma and darkened, bleak future.
However, with supportive family—father, mother, and sister—and her childhood friend and current husband, she was constantly encouraged to do what she most desired.
This book is narrated by Lucy herself, with all her emotions kept intact without getting overwhelmed by revisiting her tough journey through this book.
Rather, the book, through Lucy’s words, serves as a self-help guide and a motivating manual for all who are facing challenges, whether they are physical, mental, emotional, or financial, to get ahead in life with a positive attitude.
Blind Not Broken has 10 chapters, including a prologue, and each one has tips on how to overcome these difficult times with a disability that is obstructing one’s progress through coping mechanisms and willpower.
In addition, there are personal interviews with Lucy’s parents, family, and friends, where they share about her childhood days and how they were supportive of Lucy during her hard times.
Overall, my view on audiobooks is not as sceptical as I was earlier. However, I am sticking to non-fiction audiobooks currently, as I believe fiction is still a reading/visual medium.
I recommend this short memoir if you are in need of motivation and guidance.
April 2, 2024
I received this audiobook from NetGalley and Hachette UK Audio | Hamlyn in exchange for a free and an honest review.
I found this audiobook very eye-opening as an able-bodied person I never imagined all the hoops that people with disabilities have to go through to just exist. I think that the author's description of how she lost her sight and subsequent depression was very vivid, and I feel that it is important to show others that people go through hard times and that they come out of them through support. This is especially helpful for people who suffer with depression and cannot see an ending to their woes. The instances where the author experienced ableism was quite sad and disheartening. I liked that she included a chapter on carers and family, as maintaining a strong relationship with friends, family and carers helped her get through difficult times and the tips that were shared can be used by people who are also trying to help their relatives adjust to their new normal. I was also quite pleased with everything that is being big tech is doing to empower visually impaired people from screen readers to labels that can be read by a scanning pen. Plus the charities that provide guide dogs, giving a measure of independence. However, there is a lot more to be done to make education and facilities more accessible to everyone. The narration by Lucy Edwards was also well done and I hope that the final copy has a PDF to do the exercises at the end of each chapter, plus, look at the photos that she described.
Overall, an informative audiobook and would be especially useful for people with disabilities as the author also sites the need for more representation so that people see that they aren't alone and that they can have a fulfilling life.
I found this audiobook very eye-opening as an able-bodied person I never imagined all the hoops that people with disabilities have to go through to just exist. I think that the author's description of how she lost her sight and subsequent depression was very vivid, and I feel that it is important to show others that people go through hard times and that they come out of them through support. This is especially helpful for people who suffer with depression and cannot see an ending to their woes. The instances where the author experienced ableism was quite sad and disheartening. I liked that she included a chapter on carers and family, as maintaining a strong relationship with friends, family and carers helped her get through difficult times and the tips that were shared can be used by people who are also trying to help their relatives adjust to their new normal. I was also quite pleased with everything that is being big tech is doing to empower visually impaired people from screen readers to labels that can be read by a scanning pen. Plus the charities that provide guide dogs, giving a measure of independence. However, there is a lot more to be done to make education and facilities more accessible to everyone. The narration by Lucy Edwards was also well done and I hope that the final copy has a PDF to do the exercises at the end of each chapter, plus, look at the photos that she described.
Overall, an informative audiobook and would be especially useful for people with disabilities as the author also sites the need for more representation so that people see that they aren't alone and that they can have a fulfilling life.
March 26, 2024
Wow what a book. Lucy Edwards has given a powerfully moving look at the effects of loosing her sight to a very rare condition. Diagnosed at a young age she first lost her sight in her right eye. Whilst partially sighted she gave a detailed description of how she managed with day to day activities and schooling. It was heart breaking listening to how as a teenager she finally lost the sight she had. She then went on a journey of grief and depression.
But Lucy's personality shines through in this book. How, with the love of a very supportive family and friends. Yes some with four legs too !!! She has come to channel positivity into her life and those around her. In her words yes she blind not broken.
I work in a clinic where we perform specialised eye tests. As much as patients can tell you about their day to day lives you don't fully get to know them. Lucy has given me a greater understanding of the world through 'her eye's'. I will certainly be recommending my colleagues read this book.
Lucy you are amazing. The world is your oyster. I can't wait to see more chapters of your life evolving.
But Lucy's personality shines through in this book. How, with the love of a very supportive family and friends. Yes some with four legs too !!! She has come to channel positivity into her life and those around her. In her words yes she blind not broken.
I work in a clinic where we perform specialised eye tests. As much as patients can tell you about their day to day lives you don't fully get to know them. Lucy has given me a greater understanding of the world through 'her eye's'. I will certainly be recommending my colleagues read this book.
Lucy you are amazing. The world is your oyster. I can't wait to see more chapters of your life evolving.
April 17, 2024
A lovely short read in which Lucy Edwards shares her sight loss journey from childhood through to adulthood. It is a story of loss and grief, but also happiness and love. I thought it was a fascinating insight into her life. Whilst I enjoyed it primarily as a memoir, there are some self-help elements at the end of each chapter that some readers may find helpful and could inspire some self-reflection.
Prior to reading this I had seen some of the author's social media, but I knew very little of her background. I think fans of Lucy Edwards will enjoy the sneak peak into her life and history, but it is definitely accesible and interesting even for those who have never heard of her. I read the kindle version, but I believe the audiobook version is read by the author herself. It already very much comes across with a strong sense of voice, as if she is chatting casually with you, so I think this could be a positive for audiobook readers.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me an e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Prior to reading this I had seen some of the author's social media, but I knew very little of her background. I think fans of Lucy Edwards will enjoy the sneak peak into her life and history, but it is definitely accesible and interesting even for those who have never heard of her. I read the kindle version, but I believe the audiobook version is read by the author herself. It already very much comes across with a strong sense of voice, as if she is chatting casually with you, so I think this could be a positive for audiobook readers.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me an e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2024
This book was suggested for those losing their sight or going through grief. As someone who is experiencing neither I still found this book relatable and guiding with the self help tips at the end of each chapter being a bonus! The book offers insight to things a sighted person wouldn’t even consider or see as an obstacle. The book highlights how far we have come with including those with poor sight but also how much we still have to go to improve in some areas. Lucy’s optimism is contagious and while she describes the hardships she has faced, she always seems to have a positive message and outlook. I picked this book as I’d vaguely heard of Lucy via TikTok and wanted a perspective of someone different from my own, this book was perfect for that, interesting and practical! I would recommend this book to anyone, there was nothing to dislike!
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
October 6, 2024
Blind Not Broken is an inspiring memoir by Lucy Edwards, a true testament to resilience and hope. At just 17, Lucy's life changed dramatically when she lost her vision due to a rare eye condition. Despite the challenges she faced, including a failed surgery, Lucy's journey is filled with moments of joy and unwavering support from her family and friends.
Narrated by Lucy herself, the audiobook captures her emotions authentically, transforming her struggles into a motivational guide for anyone facing difficulties. With ten insightful chapters, Lucy shares coping strategies and encourages a positive mindset. Personal interviews with her loved ones provide additional depth, showcasing the strong support system around her.
This memoir is not only a story of loss but also one of empowerment and perseverance. I highly recommend Blind Not Broken to anyone seeking motivation and guidance through tough times. It’s a beautifully crafted narrative that will leave you feeling uplifted.
Narrated by Lucy herself, the audiobook captures her emotions authentically, transforming her struggles into a motivational guide for anyone facing difficulties. With ten insightful chapters, Lucy shares coping strategies and encourages a positive mindset. Personal interviews with her loved ones provide additional depth, showcasing the strong support system around her.
This memoir is not only a story of loss but also one of empowerment and perseverance. I highly recommend Blind Not Broken to anyone seeking motivation and guidance through tough times. It’s a beautifully crafted narrative that will leave you feeling uplifted.
April 23, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. It was a little slow to start with as there was a lot of scene setting for the self help sections, however a little over half way I couldn’t stop listening. I thought I wasn’t after a self help book when I started to listen to it, however the advice is so sincere and tested by Lucy herself, and all of it seems really sound stuff that I whole heartedly agree with. This is a beautiful piece of writing that brings to attention how ableist the world we live in is which makes me sad for anyone with a disability. Lucy gives some great advice about things to do and not to do when you are interacting with anyone that has a disability. Thank you Lucy for writing this book, I have gotten so much from it, I am in awe of what you have achieved.
This is a review of the audiobook.
This is a review of the audiobook.
June 3, 2024
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions for me. This is the first time that I have felt seen and heard since I started to go blind myself. I'm visually impaired currently and the weird thing was that at times during the book I had keep stopping myself as it felt like I was looking in a mirror. Its so weird that me and Lucy have had to deal with similar situations as teen / young adult. This needs to change and everyone should read this book, if they do this world might be a better place for people who are living with sight lost to still have their independent as society is including them in the recession. If you take anything away from the book, it is to start following lucy edwardsvon social media
June 19, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the ARC audio for this book.
This is the Lucy's personal journey of acceptance and growth. She takes the reader on a journey with her bit does it with so much passion that you are cheering her on as you read/listen.
Her story and this book is powerful as not only does she talk about her own experiences but also leaves helpful tips and suggestions on how to deal with such circumstances and what helped her which I thought was a beautiful touch.
The chapter that got me was her Q&A session with her partner and family because Lucy's blindness obviously affected her but also had a huge impact on her family too.
Overall a lovely and insightful listen.
This is the Lucy's personal journey of acceptance and growth. She takes the reader on a journey with her bit does it with so much passion that you are cheering her on as you read/listen.
Her story and this book is powerful as not only does she talk about her own experiences but also leaves helpful tips and suggestions on how to deal with such circumstances and what helped her which I thought was a beautiful touch.
The chapter that got me was her Q&A session with her partner and family because Lucy's blindness obviously affected her but also had a huge impact on her family too.
Overall a lovely and insightful listen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This was a difficult but hopeful read at this point in my journey but is really helpful while I am on the waitlist for counselling. It was interesting to hear Lucy talk about grieving and the stages of grief as someone who recently found out I didn’t properly grieve my own diagnosis and that is still causing problems almost 5 years after. I did have to praise a few times throughout the book due to my own journey making parts painful, especially around romantic relationships but it was important to hear nonetheless. I found that there were some great exercises and listening to it as a self-narrated audiobook was amazing, getting to hear her words in her own voice.
March 1, 2024
**Listened to the audio book**
Firstly, loved the fact that the audiobook is read by the author. It makes it so much more personal.
I have followed Edwards for a while on socials, so this book was a great chance to find out more about her. She is incredibly honest, and at times it's a really tough listen- particularly when speaking about her sight loss and how she felt during that time.
This book follows her journey but it's not all doom and gloom - she is very witty and her charisma and energy just shines through the audiobook.
I just wish the book was longer. Would have liked even more! Was over too quickly.
Firstly, loved the fact that the audiobook is read by the author. It makes it so much more personal.
I have followed Edwards for a while on socials, so this book was a great chance to find out more about her. She is incredibly honest, and at times it's a really tough listen- particularly when speaking about her sight loss and how she felt during that time.
This book follows her journey but it's not all doom and gloom - she is very witty and her charisma and energy just shines through the audiobook.
I just wish the book was longer. Would have liked even more! Was over too quickly.
September 5, 2024
A really enjoyable and interesting insight into the experience of being blind. The insights into Lucy’s childhood experiences, relationships with family, and how she navigates life as a blind woman were really interesting. Less exciting were the self-help tidbit sections, which wasn’t really what I was looking for in this book. Audiobook narration was really good, and I would recommend the audio format to really get a sense of Lucy.
3 stars - good book but could have done with less self help and more breadth and depth in relation to the authors experiences.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an opportunity to review this audiobook.
3 stars - good book but could have done with less self help and more breadth and depth in relation to the authors experiences.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an opportunity to review this audiobook.
December 3, 2024
I've been blind for at least 3 1/2 years. It took me a long time to go to be tested because I was in denial, so we don't know exactly how long.
This book made me cry a river. A guide to blindness and coping was the book I've needed. As someone with a lot of remaining sight (for a blind person) I feel much better reading a book by someone with no remaining vision. It showed me that even if I lose every bit of sight, I will have so much left in my life.
Also side note, love that her and molly Burke are friends. Such a Stan. (Am I using that term right? 😂
I'll be rereading this often. Thank you Lucy.
This book made me cry a river. A guide to blindness and coping was the book I've needed. As someone with a lot of remaining sight (for a blind person) I feel much better reading a book by someone with no remaining vision. It showed me that even if I lose every bit of sight, I will have so much left in my life.
Also side note, love that her and molly Burke are friends. Such a Stan. (Am I using that term right? 😂
I'll be rereading this often. Thank you Lucy.
January 26, 2025
Anyone navigating loss or helping a loved one to do so should read this. It's an honest account of learning to live with sight loss - moving forward from gut-wrenching grief to acceptance and everything in between. Lots of life lessons on allowing time for adjustment, being kind to yourself, not taking shit from anyone, and turning the cards life gives you into a winning hand. You will love little Lucy and root for her, and you'll be amazed by what grownup Lucy has achieved.
May 20, 2024
A valuable insight into overcoming the grief of blindness through Lucy's own journey. While the book focuses on blindness, I would also strongly recommend it to anyone who is going through the feelings of grief that comes with a disability/chronic illness diagnosis as the tips are beneficial to coping with and overcoming these.
July 1, 2024
I’ve followed Lucy on social media for a few years now and I’ve always loved her genuine fun and honesty. This shines through again in her book, that same fun energy. Obviously there are bits of sadness through her loss of sight but she’s dealt with it all with the same energy. The audiobook is apparently narrated by her and that would be a lovely way to hear this story!
August 25, 2024
Lucy does a great job of explaining her journey. Knowing people who are slowly losing their sight is scary and listening to this book will help me to understand them. I am giving 4 starts instead of 5 as I really didn’t feel the need for Lucy to make it a self help book with activities. Her story is powerful enough.
Thank you net galley for the chance to listen and review this arc.
Thank you net galley for the chance to listen and review this arc.
January 22, 2025
I follow Lucy on Instagram and so bought her book. It's part memoir, part self help. I loved the bits about inventors with disabilities, would have liked a whole book on that. Great book about how Lucy came to terms with her blindness and how other people can come to terms with grief, disability or changing life situations
June 13, 2024
Have had lost most of my remaining vision at 11, and just recently going through a lot of change, Lucy’s book has been the spark in the darkness letting me know that I am definitely not alone in this journey. Grief may be different for everyone, but we all need that someone to help us along.
June 9, 2025
La parte donde ella explica cómo pierde la vista y como eso le afecta a los 17 está genial, also, cuando desmitifica cosas que la gente da por hecho de las personas ciegas tmb. La parte que no me mola tanto es el rollo autoayuda, ufff, no es mi rollo y creo q son consejos un poco generalistas
September 10, 2024
Review to come…
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