Children's Literature about the deaf - Text Set Reflection

My search for books about deaf indviduals was not difficult for me to find. I was shocked at how much children's literature offered information about the deaf community. I was able to find the three books Amelia Lends a Hand, Deaf Child Crossing, and I have a sister - my sister is deaf, which all cover different aspects of a deaf individual's life.

When I read at the library Amelia Lends a Hand and Deaf Child Crossing were both about a deaf individual and a hearing child's friendship I was a little disappointed that the story line was so similar. Although, now having read both of the texts I feel they both offer beneficial information in both and is presented differently. In Amelia Lends a Hand the attempt to develop communication between Amelia and her neighbor is the main focus of the story. The story is presented in a note taking format with real colorful pictures supporting the text nicely. Demonstrations are included within the text to teach the reader specifically some of the American Sign Language the deaf community uses. This is helpful to all readers to be able to visually see and understand what each sign looks like. In Deaf Child Crossing though, the concept for true friendships and maintaining them is covered while incorporating information about being deaf. The text is written in a novel format targeted toward an older audience. Marlee Matlin does a good job developing each and every character so you really feel like you relate to what they're going through in their lives. Marlee Matlin was deaf herself so readers feel a sense of comfort and credibility in her writing because she experienced it growing up.

The third book I chose concentrated on living with a person of the deaf community. I have a sister - my sister is deaf really teaches the reader some the strengths and weaknesses of a deaf individual. Although, the author not only points of strengths and weaknesses of the little sister being deaf but also the narrators strengths and weaknesses. Jeanne Whitehouse Peterson writes toward a young reader age level. There are a few sentences on each page with big detailed pictures along side. Through her writing a sense of equality is described in characteristics of both characters in the book.

Deafnesses is something society experiences everyday. If communication is developed among different communities then we as citizens can grow into a more knowledgeable and respecting individuals. There is a lot we both can learn from each other. I believe it's important to present information about deafness so that stereotypes and discrimination is eventually gone. The use of children's literature addressing these topics can be very beneficial.