Maria Arvizo selected as 2010 Writer to Writer Challenge Winner

READ/San Diego learner, Maria Arvizo, was selected as the winner of the Beginning Writers category for the 2010 Writer to Writer challenge. The Writer to Writer Challenge is the annual statewide writing competition for adult learners in public library literacy programs throughout California.
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Adult learners are invited to read a book of their choice and then write a personal letter to the author of that book, sharing with the author their thoughts and opinions as to how the book affected them. Maria wrote to Helen Keller about her book, The Story of My Life.

Here is a copy of Maria's award winning letter:

​Book: The Story of my Life
Author: Helen Keller
 12-22-10
 
Dear Helen Keller,
 
I just want to say thank you so much for writing "The Story of My Life." As soon as I started to read the story, it touched my heart. I identified with the story not because I am deaf or blind, but because when I came from Mexico to this beautiful country, I actually felt blind, deaf and dumb. That was because I couldn't understand, speak, write or read English. I was feeling in the darkness or like a fish out of water.

When I got to this country, I needed a job to pay my expenses. I thought about studying the English language, but it was difficult, between finding the time and transportation.

You taught me that no matter what your circumstances are, you can be successful. You were deaf and blind and all this wasn't an impediment to you to stand out and struggle for a bright and better future.
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I think it doesn't matter what your circumstances are when you are passionate about something in your life. Definitely your testimony made my faith strong. With perseverance, confidence and patience, I can make my dreams about writing, reading and speaking the English language come true.

Now since I have started to learn the English language, I feel more strong and confident. I have begun to see my improvement in writing and reading English.

I compare the story of my life and other people who were or are in similar situations. While you had big goals to help people with the same condition as you, today my ambition is to improve my English skills and speak fluently. I think when that goal comes true, my other dreams will be easier. Like you did, I would like to make a shiny future for my life.

Definitely, I will recommend your book.

Sincerely,
Maria Arvizo