Emma and I

I began the memoir "Emma and I" just waiting for the clincher. I knew from the description on the back, that Sheila Hocken was a blind woman who regained her sight -- and I wanted to read about that experience. I found as I continued reading, that this amazing part of Sheila's story doesn't happen until the end. This didn't distract me in the least, however, because a lot of interesting and inspiring things happen in the meantime. Mrs. Hocken writes in a clear and likeable style. She does not have self-pity and she does not put restricting limitations on herself; although she realizes later how much she missed sight. Even before she has the operation that allows her to see, she does so much with her life -- beginning with her amazing interactions with guide-dog Emma. Sheila describes Emma well as talented and intelligent, with empathy and an uncanny knowingness. Although Sheila doesn't see Emma for many years, I feel I know this dog. Emma is put through tests by a radio program -- walking a race through the city against a sighted man -- and Emma and Sheila win. This is just one example of the great endeavors of these two. This is really a love story of an amazing dog. A dog that deserved this admiration.

Usually you hear of people's experience loosing their sight. Now I have an idea of what it's like to have sight after a lifetime of blindness. This book gave me a whole new respect for blind people, guide dogs, and sight itself. Thanks Sheila Hocken!

A moving life story of a blind woman and her incredible guide dog Emma. This book is a rollercoaster of deep emotions that Shela feels for Emma and life they lead together, and makes us , readers, feel it too. What can I say...This is the best book I have read in the last ten years.One of those that you just can't put down, one of those that you keep in your home library and read over and over again...However,once you've read this, you'll want to read the sequels too, which are just as good...Enjoy !

Sheila Hocken shares her life with us in this biography which highlights both her experiences using a seeing-eye dog for the blind; then having her vision restored later in life.I suppose you would have to have been blind to appreciate the intensity of the moment when her sight is restored. How do you describe light and colors for the first time? Thank you, Sheila, for sharing this experience with us, the readers. Waiting to hear the rest of your life story. (Hardcover has photos).