With all the distractions that are part of our waking hours, it is no wonder that the simplest sounds of an ordinary day are taken for granted. Sounds like the crackling of ice, raindrops on a rooftop, the crunch of toast as its buttered, and even turning the page of a book are so commonplace that we seldom--if at all--take time to appreciate them. Yet, when the ability to hear these everyday sounds is taken away—as in Marsha Engle's case—we are humbly reminded of their value.

As she was slowly losing her hearing, Marsha collaborated with photographer William Huber to capture these ordinary sounds in stunning photographs, and they have collected them here in this unique and breathtaking book for both the hearing and hearing impaired to enjoy. 100 Sounds to See is a tribute to the beauty of hearing and a gentle reminder to the hearing world to listen to and appreciate everyday sounds.

 Introduction

It was supposed to be just for me. As my world was growing softer by the year, I wanted something that would help me to remember them all . . . the sounds of an ordinary day.

William Huber is an extraordinary photographer and he agreed to help me in my quest to capture pictures of the sounds I could no longer hear. Perhaps if I had something to trigger the memory by sight, I could somehow keep those sounds safely tucked away in my mind.

What happened was something much more powerful, more meaningful, and useful to many; it was no longer just for me. It comes in the form of a collection of 100 beautiful photographs of sounds . . . sounds I wish I could hear. The end result is a treasure that reminds us of this important life lesson: what is so normal is really quite profound.

So, hearing world, I want to share with you my gift from William. 100 Sounds to See is a tool that will teach you to first notice and then listen to the sounds of your day. Really listen. In this world of stress, fear, and anxiety, it was there for you all along . . . a free ticket to inner peace, no matter what the world throws your way.

What I miss the most doesn't come from an MP3 player, a cell phone, or anything technical. The sounds aren't the stuff of concertos or marching bands. They are often subtle, soft, and easy to miss. But they are so rich and so nurturing, and they are yours.

I loved them all, these sounds. Now I ask you to listen to your world. Even just for a few moments, listen to your life.
—Marsha