El Deafo

Bell, C. (2014). El Deafo. New York: Amulet Books. In this graphic novel memoir author Cece Bell retells her story of losing her hearing at the young of four due to meningitis. In this humorous novel she tells about her struggles to fit in. In Cece’s first school all the kids in her class were deaf like her and despite having a hearing aide she still struggled to understand others so her teacher taught her how to read lips. After her family moved she was forced to start the first grade as the only deaf student at school and to make matters worse she was forced to wear the Phonic Ear which was a huge hearing devise that had to be strapped to her chest. In Cece’s mind the Phonic Ear is a friend repellent until she realizes that she can hear her teacher from anywhere on campus, and soon Cece becomes “El Deafo.” “El Deafo” is her superhero alter ego that listens for all. This novel will make you laugh out loud as readers follow Cece’s journey to finding true friends and finally fitting in. El Deafo is a 2015 Newberry Honor Book. For an exciting look at El Deafo, view the book trailer at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEmrTJOscvo .