El Deafo Bibliography: Bell, C. (2014). El DEAFO. Harry N. Abrams. ISBN: 978-1419712173 Plot Summary: Cece lost her hearing at the age of four due to meningitis, so she is forced to wear a giant hearing aid that has to be strapped to her chest. Cece imagines herself having superpowers and makes a discovery that with the Phonic Ear she wears she can hear everything. She hears her teacher in the classroom and everywhere in school like the hallway, the teacher’s lounge, and even in the bathroom! She decides to call herself “El Deafo, Listener for All.” Cece tries her best to fit in and finds a friend who does not treat her differently because she is deaf. Critical Analysis: The author cleverly uses humor and a sense of adventure when dealing with the deaf character. The colorful and cartoon- like illustrations immediately draw readers in. They are filled with so much detail and the storyline automatically makes for a catchy story. The book is one that you do not want to put away and want to read in one sitting. There are many cultural connections within the book with icons like the Beatles and Batman which takes the reader back to the era in which these hits were popular. Present-day readers might not know some of these icons, but the older population certainly will, making it just as appealing for the adult reader. Children and adults will love Cece's story and can use some of the situations as teachable moments, as it deals with being different and the search for a “true” friend. I must admit the story was very touching and can be heartbreaking for readers who are having a hard time fitting in or realizing that one friend they thought was real, isn’t. Review Excerpt(s): Newbery Honor Book "Her whimsical color illustrations (all the human characters have rabbit ears and faces), clear explanations and Cece’s often funny adventures help make the memoir accessible and entertaining."―Kirkus Reviews "This memoir is thus exceptionally informative and entertaining in relation to some aspects of deaf communication, but, most centrally and powerfully, it is exceptional for its perceptive, indomitable protagonist and complex story of friendship, growth, and classroom and family dynamics."―The Horn Book Magazine Connection: * Have students discuss and then write what it means to be a good friend. * Students can do some research about deafness. Gather other graphic novels: Telgemeier, R. 2010. SMILE. New York, NY: Graphix.
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