Newly Produced Braille Books
WTBBL's Braille Department transcribes braille books for its own collection and to supplement the NLS collection via the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) site throughout the year. We transcribe materials by Northwest authors, on Northwest subjects, and other books to fill gaps in the national collection. All of this is made possible by the hard work of our volunteer braille transcribers and proofreaders, and WTBBL staff, who produce roughly 50 titles a year.
If you are interested in learning more about being a Braille Department Volunteer, please visit our Volunteer page.
We are currently producing hard-copy braille books and hope to be able to add books to BARD soon.
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November 2024
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Children's Books
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Wheedle and the Noodle by Stephen Cosgrove (BER00188)
Wheedle, a creature with a red, blinking nose, lives atop Seattle's Space Needle. The usually grumpy creature meets a lost kitten, Noodle, who is looking for a home. Wheedle learns to share his life and his Needle with the abandoned pet in a story about friendship. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2009.
Transcriber: Joan MoritzWheedle and the Needle by Stephen Cosgrove (BER00189)
Deep in the woods of the Pacific Northwest lives a red-nosed creature named the Wheedle. Wheedle has to flee the forests, and then the mountains, to try to find peace and quiet. Finally he gets to the very tip-top of Seattle's Space Needle, and finds contentment. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2009.
Transcriber: Joan MoritzImage
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Think Smart Be Fearless: A Biography of Bill Gates by Sharon Mentyka (BER00190)
Think Smart, Be Fearless tells the inspiring story of Bill Gates, one of America’s most fascinating entrepreneurs, starting from his early years as a precocious, inquisitive child who faced challenges fitting in with his classmates. Young Bill, known as Trey in his family, was a bit of a troublemaker, bored at school and prone to acting out. That all changed in high school with his discovery of the early world of computers. His instincts immediately told him that computers were the future. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2019.
Transcriber: Pam Lorenz | Proofreaders: Lanae Naugle and Martha OmanA Ticket to The Pennant: A Tale of Baseball in Seattle by John Skewes (BER00191)
Travel back in time to 1955, when the Seattle Rainiers faced the Los Angeles Angels for the Pacific Coast League pennant. Follow Huey, a young baseball fan, as he retraces his footsteps through South Seattle, trying to find his missing ticket to the big game. Note: the embossed contracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2016.
Transcriber: Pam Lorenz | Proofreaders: Lanae Naugle and Martha OmanImage
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Three Bears of the Pacific Northwest by Richard Vaughan and Marcie Vaughan (BRP01411)
When a teddy bear falls out of the RV he was traveling in with his boy, Black Bear, Brown Bear and other creatures in the Pacific Northwest mountains and forests help him find his way back home. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2011.
Transcriber: Mary ForsterPlay Day, School Day by Toni Yuly (BRP016175)
Tomorrow is the first day of the new school year, and big sister Mona can’t wait to go back. “What do you do at school?” asks little brother Milo. As he listens to Mona recount the many things she does during the school week — riding the bus, practicing spelling and reading, learning about science, playing with friends — Milo’s activities illustrate that with a little imagination, nature itself can be a classroom. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2020.
Transcriber: Traci Timmons | Proofreader: Pam LorenzSnail Crossing by Corey R. Tabor (BRP016176)
A slow and steady snail's determination and kindness bring him the best reward of all: friendship. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2020.
Transcriber: Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Stacy Thurston and Warren Askov -
October 2024
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Children's Books
We've added five new books in the Ana & Andrew Series:
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Ana & Andrew: A Day at the Museum by Christine Platt (BER00181)
It's a surprise visit! Ana & Andrew are excited when Grandma comes to visit. While she is there, the family tours the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture and learns about important African American achievements. For preschool and older. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2019.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreader: Pam LorenzAna & Andrew: A Snowy Day by Christine Platt (BER00182)
School is canceled! Ana & Andrew play in the snow with their neighbors and learn to make snow ice cream. They save some snow cream in the freezer for their cousins in Trinidad who have never seen snow. For preschool and older. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2019.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreader: Pam LorenzAna & Andrew: Dancing at Carnival by Christine Platt (BER00183)
During Carnival, Ana & Andrew travel to visit their family on the island of Trinidad. They love watching the parade and dancing to the music. This year, they learn how their ancestors helped create the holiday! For preschool and older. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2019.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreader: Pam LorenzImage
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Ana & Andrew: Summer in Savannah by Christine Platt (BER00184)
Ana & Andrew travel to visit their grandparents in Savannah, Georgia. While they are there, they learn Grandma and Grandpa's church was built by slaves. With some help from an unusual source! For preschool and older. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2019.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreader: Pam LorenzAna & Andrew: The Magic Violin by Christine Platt (BER00185)
Ana & Andrew are learning to play the violin! They are excited to join the youth orchestra. At first it is fun. But when they start to lose interest, Ana & Andrew learn from an important African American musician about the importance of practicing. For preschool and older. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2020.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreader: Pam LorenzWe also have: Ana & Andrew: The New Baby (BER00177).
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On the News: Our First Talk about Tragedy by Jillian Roberts (BER00187)
Gently introduces young children to the realities of natural disasters, terrorism and other forms of tragedy. In age-appropriate language and tone, Dr. Roberts explains what tragedy is, the feelings it may create and how to manage those feelings. Note: the embossed contracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For kindergarten to grade 3. 2018.
Transcriber: Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Srithi Srinath and Jessica SannemanPlease note that the following books can be requested and brailled-on-demand at WTBBL:
The Mask by Eric Howling (BRW08775)
Fourteen-year-old Logan Grant is the star center for the Westside Wolves bantam hockey team. He has all the skills and all the looks, but he has alienated many of his teammates with his me-first attitude. One night Logan's life is forever changed when a fire sweeps through his house. For grades 4-7.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreader: Pam LorenzThe Sea in Winter by Christine Day (BRW08795)
After an injury sidelines her dreams of becoming a ballet star, Maisie is not excited for her blended family's midwinter road trip along the coast, near the Makah community where her mother grew up. Commercial audiobook. American Indian Youth Literature Award: Middle Grade Honor Book. For grades 4-7. 2021.
Transcriber: Karen Hara | Proofreaders: Multiple Teams -
September 2024
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Children's Book
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Sophia and Alex learn about health = Sofia y Alejandro aprenden acera de la salud [#3, Sophia and Alex] by Denise Bourgeois-Vance (BER00186)
English/Spanish bilingual book. As Sophia and Alex are home sick today, their school mates discover and learn about good health habits from eating right and maintaining good hygiene. From brushing their teeth, to testing their hearing and eyesight, the children learn that staying healthy is essential to feeling good and staying active. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2020.
Transcribers: Gail Viscione and Pam LorenzPlease note that the following book can be requested and brailled-on-demand at WTBBL:
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Ways to Build Dreams [#4 Ryan Hart Stories] by Renée Watson (BRW08823)
Middle school is just around the corner for Ryan Hart, which means it's time to start thinking about the future--and not just how to prank her brother, Ray! During Black History Month, Ryan learns more about her ancestors and local Black pioneers, and their hopes for the future, for her generation. She wonders who she wants to be and what kind of person her family hopes she becomes. Drawing on the ambitions of those who came before her and her own goals, Ryan is determined to turn her dreams into reality. Grow and shine and share with Ryan Hart in this series that brings ever more humor, more love, and more fun. For grades 3-6. 2023.
Transcriber: Joan Moritz | Proofreaders: Stacy Thurston and Warren Askov -
August 2024
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Please note that the following books can be requested and brailled-on-demand at WTBBL:
Children's Book
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Dance Challenge [#4, Mouseford Academy] by Thea Stilton (BRW08712)
The Thea Sisters are thrilled about the new performing arts program being offered at Mouseford Academy. That is, until they meet the head of the department--the demanding and strict Professor Ratyshnikov. The mouselets will have to audition just to get into her class! For grades 2-4. 2014.
Transcriber: Jenny Bae | Proofreaders: Keiko Namekata and Mark DannerBooks for Young Adults
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Living in a Violent Household by Laura La Bella (BRW08734)
Facts about and advice for dealing with living in a violent situation at home. Covers domestic abuse, family relationships, and how to break the cycle. For high school and older. Part of the Confronting Violence Against Women series. 2016.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreaders: Stacy Thurston and Warren AskovMunro vs. The Coyote by Darren Groth (BRW08761)
Since the sudden death of his younger sister, Evie, sixteen-year-old Munro Maddux has been having flashbacks and anger-management issues. He has a constant ache in his right hand. And there's a taunting, barking, biting voice he calls the Coyote. Munro knows a six-month student exchange will not be the stuff of teenage dreams, but in Australia he intends to move beyond his troubled past. It is there, at an assisted-living residence called Fair Go Community Village, that Munro discovers the Coyote can be silenced. For grades 7 and up. 2017.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreaders: Multiple Teams -
July 2024
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Children's Books
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Grizzly Boy by Barbara Davis-Pyles (BRP01522)
An ornery boy decides he'd rather be a grizzly bear - until some consequences make him think otherwise. PRINT/BRAILLE, For K-3. 2018.
Transcriber: Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistAdrian Simcox Does NOT Have a Horse by Marcy Campbell and Corinna Luyken (BRP01548)
Adrian Simcox tells anyone who will listen that he has a horse--the best and most beautiful horse anywhere. But Chloe does NOT believe him. Adrian Simcox lives in a tiny house. Where would he keep a horse? He has holes in his shoes. How would he pay for a horse? The more Adrian talks about his horse, the angrier Chloe gets. But when she calls him out at school and even complains about him to her mom, Chloe doesn't get the vindication she craves. She gets something far more important. PRINT/BRAILLE. For K-3. 2018.
Transcriber: Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Keiko Namekata and Mark DannerThe following book can be requested and brailled-on-demand at WTBBL:
Lobos: A Wolf Family Returns to the Wild by Brenda Peterson (BRW08687)
The true story of a Mexican gray wolf family, known as lobos, with pups born at a sanctuary in Washington State near Mount Rainier and their eventual release into the wild in Mexico. For grades 2-4 and older. 2018.
Transcribers: Ed Godfrey and Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline Baptist -
June 2024
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Children's Books
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Monsters Under Bridges: Pacific Northwest Edition by Rachel Roellke Coddington (BER00180)
Readers discover all sorts of fantastic beasts and learn about where to find them in this field guide to monsters living under bridges in various parts of the Pacific Northwest. Entries on creatures from Washington, Oregon, and Vancouver, BC are included. PRINT/BRAILLE. 2013.
Transcriber: Gail Viscione | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistBa-chan the Ninja Grandma, an Adventure with Little Kunoichi the Ninja Girl by Sanae Ishida (BRP01521)
Summer is here and all her friends are on vacation, making the Ninja Girl bored! So Little Kunoichi, joined by her little brother and Bunny, are excited when their Grandmother Ba-chan decides to visit. They are met with many surprises as they spend time with Ba-chan on an island she made herself and together learn that curiosity, resourcefulness, love, and imagination have more value than things money can buy. Note: an embossed contracted braille version of the "Did You Know?" section is spiral bound and packaged with the print/braille version of the book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2018.
Transcriber: Ian Shearer | Proofreaders: Keiko Namekata and Mark Danner, Stacy Thurston and Warren AskovHazel and Twig: The Birthday Fortune by Brenna Burns Yu (BRP01517)
Twig's first birthday is coming up, and her whole family (especially her older sister, Hazel) is eager to see what she will choose at her doljabi. Whatever item Twig chooses will tell her fortune, but what will she pick? Readers will learn about the Korean tradition of doljabi through this charming story of a family of rabbits. PRINT/BRAILLE. For Preschool and older. 2018.
Transcriber: Ian Shearer | Proofreaders: Stacy Thurston and Warren AskovImage
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I Think I Can by Karen S. Robbins (BRP01526)
Aardvark and Mouse learn to sing and read in this conversation-style book. Simple text. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2019.
Transcribers: Ed Godfrey and Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistSometimes People Fight, Even When They Love Each Other by Dagmar Geisler (BRP01530)
A thorough and easy way to discuss disagreements and arguments with young children. For preschoolers and older. PRINT/BRAILLE. 2019.
Transcriber: Gail Viscione | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistThe Gentleman Bat by Abraham Schroeder (BRP01523)
Join the charismatic gentleman bat and his friends on a nighttime stroll down cobblestone streets where the town is lively and energetic. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades 2-4. 2014. Transcriber: Ed Godfrey | Proofreaders: Lanae Naugle and Martha Oman
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May 2024
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Children's Books
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The Littlest Family’s Big Day by Emily Winfield Martin (BB024213)
Who is only under 5 inches tall and has just moved to the woods? The cutest and littlest bear family you have ever seen—and their adopted teeny tiny fox tot! What happens when they venture out to explore their new world...? Board book, PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2018.
Transcriber: Allison Tang | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistThe New Baby by Christine Platt (BER00177)
Ana & Andrew are expecting a sibling! The family is very excited. Mama's family arrives from Trinidad, and everyone helps to get ready. When the baby arrives, Ana & Andrew learn from Granny that in African American culture, a baby's name often tells an important story. For preschool and older. Note: the embossed uncontracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. An audiobook version on cartridge is also included. Part of the Ana & Andrew series. 2020.
Transcriber: Ed Godfrey | Proofreaders: Lanae Naugle and Martha OmanSomething Is Wrong at My House: A Book About Parents Fighting by Diane Davis (BER00178)
A boy who lives with domestic violence finally has the courage to speak to an adult and ask for help. First published in 1984. For grades 1-3. Note: the embossed contracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. An audiobook version on cartridge is also included. 2010.
Transcriber: Emi Green | Proofreaders: Lanae Naugle and Martha OmanImage
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Paul and His Ukulele by Robert Broder (BRP01513)
Paul receives a ukulele as a gift and falls in love with music. His travels take him to a new town—and an unexpected adventure. PRINT/BRAILLE. For K-3. 2018.
Transcribed at WTBBL | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistChibi Samurai Wants a Pet, an Adventure with Little Kunoichi the Ninja Girl by Sanae Ishida (BRP01516)
Meet Little Kunoichi's buddy, Chibi Samurai. Inspired by Little Kunoichi's relationship with her pet ninja bunny, Chibi Samurai sets off to find a companion for himself. He explores many possibilities from Japanese culture—both real and mythical—thinking about how each creature might be as a pet. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2017. Transcriber: Ian Shearer | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistThe Skin I'm In: A First Look at Racism by Pat Thomas (BRP01529)
A simple explanation of racism, its basic causes, and the ways in which it can lead to unfair practices. For preschool and older. PRINT/BRAILLE. Note: an embossed contracted braille version of the "How To Use This Book" section is spiral bound and packaged with the print/braille version of the book. An audiobook version on cartridge is also included. 2003.
Transcribers: Ed Godfrey and Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline Baptist -
April 2024
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Children's Books
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A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara (BB024208)
An ABC book about activism, environmental justice, civil rights, LGBTQ rights, and other topics that activists believe in and fight for. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2013. Transcriber: Traci Timmons | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistHands Are Not for Hitting by Martine Agassi (BB024209)
Shows the many good things that toddlers can do with their hands including waving, hugging, and playing—but not hitting. Board book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and younger. Note: an embossed contracted braille version of the "A Word to Parents and Caregivers" section is spiral bound and packaged with the print/braille version of the book. 2009. Transcriber: Allison Tang | Proofreaders: Stacy Thurston and Warren AskovCurious George and the Rocket by H.A. Rey and Margret Rey (BB024210)
Curious George goes on an adventure in a rocket ship to space. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2001.
Transcriber: Allison Tang. Proofread by Stacy Thurston and Warren Askov.Image
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All Aboard! Pacific Northwest by Kevin Meyers and Haily Meyers (BB024211)
Explore the Pacific Northwest in this easy board book for young travelers. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2015.
Transcriber: Allison Tang | Proofreaders: Stacy Thurston and Warren AskovMy Little Pony: Pinkie Pie Throws a Party (BB024212)
Help the Ponies prepare for a special party in this simple board book. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool and older. 2008.
Transcriber: Allison Tang | Proofreaders: Abby Traverse and Caroline BaptistDigital Safety Smarts: Preventing Cyberbullying by Mary Lindeen (BER00176)
Discusses digital citizenship and what to do about cyberbullying and online harassment. For grades 4 and above. Note: an embossed contracted braille version is spiral bound and packaged with the print version of the book. 2016.
Transcriber: Karen Hara | Proofreaders: Stacy Thurston and Warren Askov