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Monroeville Man, Born Legally Blind, Tells How Childhood Friends Led Him Out of the Shadows

In his first book, written for young readers, L. E. Allen tells the true story of the boy who longed to be accepted and the summer that brought him friendship, courage and hope

MONROEVILLE, Ohio, Oct. 19, 2026. In the summer of 1966, a group of boys rode their bicycles up a driveway in Lansing, Michigan, to meet the new kid, a 12-year-old who was born legally blind. They worked out how he could ride with them: a couple in front to lead, the rest beside and behind him, calling out "Car!" when one was coming. When they played baseball, a friend shouted "Swing!" when it was time.

Sixty years later, Lawrence "Larry" Allen, 73, of Monroeville, has told that story for young readers. He was the new kid. His first book, "Out of the Shadows: A Boy's Journey," was published Sept. 24 under the name L. E. Allen.

Mr. Allen, who is retired, has coached basketball and football at various levels for more than 25 years. In his hometown of Monroeville, he still helps out with coaching and substitute teaching at Monroeville Local School District.

As a boy, Larry could see shapes, colors and movement, and he could read large print held close to his face. Until that summer, he had found it hard to make friends. The boys accepted him and his disability as part of who he was.

"When I was a young boy facing blindness, my friends changed everything!" Mr. Allen said. "Sharing my story has brought me so much joy, and more stories are coming soon."

The next spring, eye surgery gave him sight. On the ride home from the hospital, he saw yards full of dandelions. His mother called them weeds, but to him they were flowers, and they are on the book's cover. After many more surgeries over the years, he sees well today with glasses.

Mr. Allen wrote the book for readers ages 7 to 13. He said he wrote it "for the kid who is waiting to be asked, and for the kids who can do the asking." He hopes it will inspire young readers to believe in themselves, overcome obstacles and never give up on their dreams.

Discussion questions for parents and teachers are on the home page. Mr. Allen is available for readings at schools and libraries.