Catching Sight - Large Print by Deni Elliott (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

One woman's journey through progressive blindness and the extraordinary guide dog who kept her safe along the way

When ethics scholar Deni Elliott, born with limited vision, realized she could no longer navigate the world safely alone, she turned to a guide dog--a decision that reshaped her understanding of disability and independence. Co-authored with master trainer Graham Buck, Catching Sight offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of guide dog breeding and training, revealing the intelligence and decision-making skills these dogs develop from birth.

Catching Sight is for readers interested in the transformative power of human relationships with animals. As Deni confronts her changing reality, she shares the hidden world of guide dog training and introduces Alberta, a yellow Lab whose quiet brilliance changed her interaction with the world and herself.

Catching Sight offers a fresh and unforgettable perspective on disability, identity, and the power of partnership.

Review Quotes

"As Elliott explores her special relationships with these dogs and their exceptional breeding and training, readers will fall in love with this heartwarming story of human-animal connection and resilience."
--Shelf Awareness

"[A] moving memoir . . . Readers should prepare to smile, feel gratitude for sight, and learn a lot."
--Booklist

"Catching Sight is a story of science, compassion, self-exploration, and faith, and of the transformative power of how canine intelligence and loyalty help bring self-acceptance and dignity to a woman struggling to live her full life with limited vision, along with a skilled and compassionate trainer, who brings together both canine and human perspectives in an unparalleled bonding of confident teamwork. Captivating and informative, moving and heartfelt, a must-read for anyone wanting to experience amazing connections of trust and reliance."
--Wendy S. David, PhD, Board of Directors, Guiding Eyes for the Blind

"Catching Sight takes you into the incredible world of guide dogs to show why these close partnerships matter--not just for mobility but for dignity and belonging. Deni Elliott's powerful story will stay with you long after you finish reading."
--Marc Bekoff, author of The Emotional Lives of Animals

About the Author

Deni Elliott is co-director for the National Ethics Project and is professor emerita in the Department of Journalism and Digital Communication at the University of South Florida. She is the author or editor of 10 previous books. Deni served on the Guiding Eyes for the Blind Graduate Council and co-chaired the nation's first continuing education seminar for guide dog partners.

Graham Buck trained dogs at Guiding Eyes for the Blind for 31 years. He is the owner of Buck's Best Dogs, a science-based dog training business that builds relationships between people and their pet dogs.