SuitabookTrue Biz
Sara Novic
- Reading
- If the subject matter is unfamiliar, read alongside pauses for discussion about language, culture and differing viewpoints within Deaf communities. The book’s sign-language illustrations and layout may reward a physical edition.
- Themes
- Deaf identity, language and technology: Charlie has an implant that does not work efficiently and has not learnt sign language; Austin comes from a Deaf family, while the wider school community debates different communication paths. The novel presents communication choices as connected with access, identity, culture and power rather than as a simple individual decision.
- Community, discrimination and civil rights: The novel includes the history of Black American Sign Language and discrimination faced by Black Deaf students, alongside broader questions about Deaf education and civil rights. These subjects are treated as social and historical issues embedded in the characters’ lives, not merely as background information.
- Belonging and relationships: Charlie seeks belonging after isolation, Austin’s family circumstances unsettle him, and February faces pressure involving her school, marriage and family. The book presents competing or mixed signals about this.
- Worth knowing
- Be aware of material involving isolation, injustice, family strain, first love, loss, risky drug and sexual behaviour, and disagreement over sign language, implants and Deaf education.