From social media star and disability activist Molly Burke, a vulnerable and witty memoir on navigating the challenges of being a legally blind woman in an ableist world
When Molly Burke was four years old, she was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a rare degenerative eye disease that causes gradual and complete blindness, forcing Burke to conceptualize the world differently. Growing up disabled didn't stop her from playing sports, speaking publicly, or becoming a rock-climbing instructor, but it was other people's narrow perceptions of her that held her back. Today, Burke is a speaker, content creator, model, author, and advocate whose mission is to help foster community for anyone feeling isolated, misrepresented, or misunderstood. Unseen is Burke's story in her own words and an inspiration to those who have been stigmatized or are feeling alone in their struggles to speak out.
Burke chronicles her journey as a disabled woman, business owner, and entertainer, illuminating not only what her experiences have taught her, but also what she wishes the world understood about her world and the world of others in the blind community. Part memoir, part rallying cry for better representation, Unseen recounts Burke's life and experiences fighting against the expectations society set for her as a blind woman, and in doing so, helps readers find their voice, strength, and inner purpose. Molly Burke is a legally blind public speaker, content creator, model, author, and advocate who began her public speaking journey at the age of five to raise awareness for disabled people everywhere. After overcoming harsh bullying and feelings of isolation during her teenage years, Burke decided to bring a voice to underrepresented communities by speaking at places like the United Nations and the World Economic Forum in Davos. She then took to social media, creating content that would make others feel less scared about their own disabilities, less alone, and more educated on ways to create inclusive spaces. With her personality and content, she has amassed over five million followers across platforms, and has worked with brands such as Aerie, Samsung, Bose, Starbucks, Delta, Disney, Dove, Microsoft, Tommy Hilfiger, Estée Lauder, and Crocs. Burke has been featured in media ranging from the Wall Street Journal, People, Paper, Forbes, Adweek, and Allure-where she was added to the inaugural A List-to The Daily Show with Trevor Noah and The Today Show. Burke is based in Los Angeles.
