My Left Foot

Christy Brown was born with cerebral palsy and severe physical disability. He grew up to become a brilliantly imaginative and sensitive writer who would take his place among the giants of Irish literature.

This autobiography, published in 1954 when he was twenty-two, recounts his early life in Dublin – the poverty of his childhood, the support of his mother and his hope for a better life. Above all it describes his struggle to learn to read, write, paint and finally type, all with the toe of his left foot. Warm, honest and inspiring, this is a unique and captivating story of disability told by an extraordinary man.

'Riveting, funny and inspiring' Irish Times

'His book, over and above the extraordinary achievement it reveals, is a testament to one man’s courage, a hope for others' Kirkus Reviews