24/08/05 - Launch of RNIB Scotland's first talking book

The first Talking Book for blind and partially sighted children to be produced by RNIB Scotland will be launched today at Edinburgh's International Book Festival.

The Garbage King written by children's writer Elizabeth Laird has been recorded as a Talking Book by RNIB Scotland's transcription service in Glasgow with support from Arts & Business Scotland and Royal Mail Scotland.

 

The launch and the sponsorship were welcomed by John Legg, Director, RNIB Scotland.

"Talking Books for adults and children is a major service which RNIB provides to blind and partially sighted people."

He added: "It is a scandal that 95 per cent of published material is never made available to people who find it impossible to read standard printed books.

"For children, access to the world of imagination and discovery - available through books - is an essential part of their education and development. We must ensure that all barriers to that opportunity are removed."

 

The Garbage King is the story of street children in Ethiopia and is published by Macmillan.