Take a photo of a barcode or cover
To be honest, I'm not really sure how I feel about this. It was cute, but I never really connected to any of the characters...
Really sweet graphic novel, read for a children’s literature class
Cece Bell recounts her bout with meningitis as a child, and how that led to her current hearing loss. El Deafo covers her early childhood to the fifth grade, with everyone anthromorphized as rabbits.
This was a really cute read, and is an important one for persons of any age who are interested in learning about deafness. Bell made a point to emphasize the emotions she went through growing up more so than the events, which contributes both in its overall message and the idea that not everyone who is deaf goes through the same experience.
Another thing I really liked was the story included characters who were flat-out mean, who were easy to pick out, and others who were rude in more subtle ways - not letting Cece make choices for herself, assuming that she would hear them if they spoke in an unusual way, etc. Young readers can discuss how those themes apply in their life, and what to do if certain situations arise.
By imagining herself as a superhero, Bell drives home her final message: that our disabilities and/or differences do not have to be our weaknesses, they can ultimately make us stronger.
This was a really cute read, and is an important one for persons of any age who are interested in learning about deafness. Bell made a point to emphasize the emotions she went through growing up more so than the events, which contributes both in its overall message and the idea that not everyone who is deaf goes through the same experience.
Another thing I really liked was the story included characters who were flat-out mean, who were easy to pick out, and others who were rude in more subtle ways - not letting Cece make choices for herself, assuming that she would hear them if they spoke in an unusual way, etc. Young readers can discuss how those themes apply in their life, and what to do if certain situations arise.
By imagining herself as a superhero, Bell drives home her final message: that our disabilities and/or differences do not have to be our weaknesses, they can ultimately make us stronger.
Such a great perspective of a child growing up with the challenge of sudden deafness. It’s a great book to start a discussion about inclusion and how that can look/feel different for a variety of people.
Awesome
The is a great memoir. Highly recommended for all Ages. I loved the art as well. Everyone should read this one.
The is a great memoir. Highly recommended for all Ages. I loved the art as well. Everyone should read this one.
The completely unique way Bell approaches difference and disability was entirely captivating. Telling this story through a young person's eyes takes away the sympathy and self-fulfilling sense of loneliness. The storytelling takes out the sometimes desire to pull out too emotion. Much like a great play, or great performance, the author's resistance to pandering for sympathy made this a tear jerker. Also refreshing to see a young adult novelist (particularly for younger children) lean into some difficult, nuanced social situations. Highly recommend.
The author's very personal, powerful story of growing up deaf told through cartoons. It's no accident Cece Bell won the Newbery Medal for this. Nicely done. You'll be glad you read it.
adventurous
funny
hopeful
informative
lighthearted
medium-paced
A warm and honest, all-ages graphic novel about growing up as a kid with deafness. The main character, Cece, has a special hearing aid that she wears to school, and the story follows her as she navigates the countless stigmas and reactions from her friends, neighbors, and classmates. This heart-warming, and at times, achingly frank, story will leave the reader with a more compassionate understanding of how deafness affects a childhood. Bonus points for the delightful, adorable illustrations throughout!
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
fast-paced