Welcome to Litsy!

This little novel in verse tells a big story. What a love story to communication, caring adults, friends, nature, and poetry.

I wasn't sure whether I liked this book right from the start but there was something about it that kept me reading. It did pick up into a decent thriller apart from the absurdity of Yasmin driving an eighteen wheeler along the ice road in a heavy snow storm. Suspend your disbelief there!

I will read anything Ann Clare LeZotte writes; this one is a modern story. Her Martha's Vineyard trilogy left me feeling so educated as a reader. I'm not obtuse to what it's like for deaf children to be born to hearing parents who don't desire to learn sign language. This book, written in verse gave me Matilda vibes (minus the magic).

“Our differences are our superpowers.“

This book is ideal for talking about empathy and inclusivity. Students can discuss or write about a time they felt different or misunderstood.

This graphic memoir follows Cece, who becomes deaf at a young age and learns to navigate life with a Phonic Ear hearing aid, creating her superhero alter ego, El Deafo.

#middlegrademonday @Karisimo

Such a good book!

“I can‘t hear everything, but I can hear some things, and that‘s pretty great!“
I love this quote because it perfectly encapsulates Cece's positive attitude and her ability to focus on what she can do rather than what she cannot. It highlights the importance of gratitude and finding joy in one's abilities, regardless of limitations.

A significant moment in El Deafo occurs when Cece Bell, as a child, receives her first hearing aid and discovers her unique superpower: the ability to hear and understand others in a way that sets her apart. This realization empowers her to embrace her identity as a person with hearing loss and inspires her to see herself as a superhero, “El Deafo.“

In this graphic novel memoir, Cece Bell shares her experiences of growing up with a severe hearing loss. With humor and heart, Bell takes readers through her struggles, friendships, and identity formation as a deaf person. It's both relatable and inspiring for young readers.