Reviews

When I was a kid, I read a graphic novel called El Deafo. That was my first introduction to the existence of Deaf people. Since then, I have rarely interacted with the Deaf community in literature, but as someone always curious about the experiences of others, I was excited to read True Biz. This novel uses multiple POVs to illustrate several different aspects of the Deaf community and how diverse it is. The way that ASL sign language was included in the novel was incredible to read and I was fascinated by the storyline from beginning to end. I also greatly enjoyed the use of the history lessons Charlie, one of the main characters, had to teach the reader more about the history of the Deaf community. Reading this novel made me realize that I need to consume more literature that confronts ableism and I need to educate myself more about it. I consider myself an activist and ally for all oppressed groups and people, so I want to know as much as I can about as many people and experiences as I can to be as empathetic and educated as possible. Read this novel because it will open your eyes and capture your heart completely ❤️

cwagner16's review against another edition

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informative slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

tichamm's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

This one was actually surprisingly good, but not in the way I had thought it would.

First of all, listening to this on audiobook was for sure the way to go - it is ironic that I listened to this, a book that is so focused on deafeness. However, even though it's in audio, it was such a increadible touch to include the "sound" of people signing whenever someone was doing that, such an amazing touch.

In this book we follow multiple people, all related to the school despicted here and all deaf in one way or another. The author as someone that belongs to this community, really delieveres the hard and good stuff in such a way, very touching.

I did enjoy the overall plot. However, the ending felt very rushed, I expected a bit more. Otherwise, a great book.

mfrown's review against another edition

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emotional funny informative inspiring sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

nwlyon80's review against another edition

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hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

missgcedar's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

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