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‘We need the literature of other countries to expand our
horizons and stimulate our ideas. Without it, we are not only
diminished, we are starved’
(The Times, Magnus Linklater 29/06/05)
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Noir/Voir
by Francois David
Age Range: 6-8
Noir/Voir was included in the ‘Reading the Way’: Inclusive Books from Around the World Research and ‘Reading the Way 2’ projects. (Full report in the Education Zone of this website)
Noir/Voir is a very clever book effectively plays with contrast, tactile elements and braille to encourage the reader to consider visual impairment. The title is Voir but the ‘V’ has an oblique dotted line added to make the ‘N’ and the cover is black. The size of the font and the white elements on each page gradually decrease, as the book slowly immerses the reader in darkness, with the final pages being on matte paper and in braille.
This is a very tactile book in which the blind narrator explains that she has an advantage over her friends Jessy and Manon when playing a game in the dark. They all have to navigate numerous obstacles before getting to the kitchen, which Jessy and Manon find extremely difficult, but if you are blind it’s very easy! The book ends with a philosophical question about whether when we look, we truly see.
OIW felt Noir/Voir was an ingenious book, which has much to offer however, in terms of accessibility, it is not considered an example of good practice, as the braille is too discreet and not readable enough.
Some of the book’s key strengths lie in its design. It is highly distinctive, eye-catching and a pleasure to look at with an original story that is positive and effectively delivered. It features an idea which visually impaired people can clearly relate to. The additional philosophical questions ensure the book offers something substantial, generating real thought and discussion.