LOS ANGELES -- The Braille Institute Library is excited to announce a special event featuring Andrew Leland, acclaimed author and Pulitzer Prize finalist. This free event will take place on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 11:00am (PT) and will be livestreamed, as well as held in person at the Los Angeles Braille Institute Library in Los Angeles.
Leland’s memoir, The Country of the Blind: A Memoir at the End of Sight, chronicles his two-decade journey with retinitis pigmentosa, a progressive eye disease that gradually causes vision loss. Currently legally blind with about 6% of typical visual capacity, Leland shares his experiences navigating identity, relationships, and societal perceptions as his vision diminished. His memoir was named a best book of the year by The New Yorker, The Washington Post, The Atlantic and others.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Andrew Leland for an intimate conversation on vision loss,” said Lisa Lepore, Director of the Braille Institute Library. “He will be joined by John Nuanes—a Braille Institute student, volunteer instructor, and board member—who draws on his experience with retinitis pigmentosa. Grounded in Leland’s excellent book, their discussion will examine blindness—exploring adaptation, agency, and the power of stories to reshape our world.”
The event is free of charge and expected to draw a large audience. The public is invited to attend, and registration is required to receive the livestream link.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, January 16, 2025
- Time: 11:00am (PT)
- Location: Braille Institute Library, Los Angeles – 741 N. Vermont Avenue and online (livestream link available upon registration)
- Cost: Free
