SuitabookThe Silence Between Us
Alison Gervais
- Reading
- Before reading, explain that the book includes Deaf identity, school adjustment and communication differences. Afterwards, invite discussion of whose choices create barriers, without treating Maya's preferences as problems to solve.
- Themes
- Deaf identity and agency: Maya is Deaf and navigates a hearing school while making decisions about her own identity and future. The book is presented as giving Maya agency, power and capability rather than defining her solely through disability.
- Inclusion and social barriers: After moving, Maya becomes the only Deaf person in her new school and must navigate stares, an interpreter and attempted communication from peers. The text examines how other people and environments affect Maya's interactions and opportunities.
- Trust, friendship and romance: Two seniors try to befriend Maya, while Nina and Beau persist despite her wish to keep her distance. The book presents competing or mixed signals about this.
- Worth knowing
- Some readers may want to discuss stares, communication barriers, a Deaf character's opposition to cochlear implants, family circumstances and romantic elements.